What is a consequence of limiting prescriptive authority for APRNs?

Limiting prescriptive authority for Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) can lead to higher healthcare costs for several reasons. When APRNs are unable to prescribe medication independently, patients may require additional visits to physicians for prescriptions. This increases the number of healthcare encounters needed, leading to additional costs for both patients and the healthcare system. Moreover, if APRNs have to refer patients to physicians for prescription medications, it can result in delays in treatment and potentially poor health outcomes, which may necessitate more extensive and expensive interventions later on.

With restricted prescriptive authority, access to care might actually decrease rather than increase, as patients are compelled to navigate a more complex healthcare system. Consequently, enhanced collaboration among healthcare providers may not be realized optimally, as the independence of APRNs is hindered. The limitations placed on their authority do not support improved satisfaction rates for patients, who may find the additional steps frustrating and burdensome. By contrast, granting prescriptive authority to APRNs has been shown to enhance their ability to provide comprehensive care, reduce delays in treatment, and streamline the overall healthcare process.