Action request: Please use the link to the right to take action. Enter your information and create a message to send to the LSBME regarding your opposition to this rulemaking. 

On Sept. 21, the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners filed a notice of intent in the Louisiana Register to amend the medical board rules regarding the collaborative practice agreement. This new rule would significantly restrict APRNs.

All public comments must be received by Oct. 21 by mailed to LSBME, C/O Jacintha Duthu, 630 Camp St., New Orleans, LA 70130 or email jduthu@lsbme.la.gov.

Below is a list of concerns regarding the rulemaking. Click here for a redline version of the rulemaking. 

• Fewer Healthcare Providers Available: New requirements could make it harder for nurse practitioners to maintain the physician relationships required to practice, potentially reducing the number of healthcare providers available in some communities.
• Greater Travel Burdens for Patients: Rural and underserved communities may be disproportionately affected if geographic restrictions make it more difficult for nurse practitioners to provide care where physician availability is already limited.
• Delays in Receiving Care: If nurse practitioners are unable to maintain qualifying collaborative relationships, patient services could be reduced or interrupted, forcing patients to search for new providers and potentially delaying treatment.
• Increased Time and Healthcare Costs: Additional requirements involving collaborating physicians could result in extra appointments, additional travel, and increased out-of-pocket expenses, including multiple copays and time away from work or family responsibilities.
• Worsening Healthcare Shortages: Communities already struggling with limited access to primary care, maternal health services, and other healthcare resources could face even greater challenges if these regulations make it harder for nurse practitioners to serve patients