College of Nurses of Ontario supports new changes to NP legislation

TORONTO | The College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO) supports the introduction of new legislation that, if passed, would allow nurse practitioners (NPs) to deliver more health care services to the public.“We see these changes as critical to enhancing the public’s timely access to safe and effective care,” said Anne Coghlan, executive director of CNO. “The new legislation ensures NPs will have the expanded authority they need to deliver services that they have the education and competence to provide.”The Regulated Health Professions’ Statute Law Amendment Act tabled at Queen’s Park would if passed, give NPs the authority to provide a wider range of health services. In particular, it would remove restrictions on the NPs’ ability to diagnose an illness and perform specific healthcare activities It would also remove restrictions on the type of X-rays an NP can order for a patient.As well, the proposed bill would improve the current process of approving the list of drugs from which NPs can prescribe. Having a current and expanded drug list for NPs is essential to ensuring they can practice effectively.The legislation will also strengthen collaboration among health care providers.After public debate this summer, the bill is expected to go to third reading this fall.“Every day nurses, including NPs, collaborate with other care providers, including physicians and pharmacists. But current legislative barriers interfere with the public being able to benefit from an NP’s full knowledge and expertise,” said Coghlan.Update info:Deborah JonesManager, Communications416 928-0900 or toll-free in Ontario 1 800 387-5526, Ext. 7609dmjones@cnomail.org

College of Nurses of Ontario supports new changes to NP legislation

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