UNAC/UHCP Action Center
Define Scope, Improve Access to Care

Did you know that California is the ONLY state which does not define nurse practitioners' and physician assistants' scope of practice in statute or regulation?  Because of the lack of a defined scope, these health care professionals often are not fully utilized because of outdated laws that do not adequately recognize their education, training, skills and capabilities. This limits the our health care system’s ability to provide the very best possible care, especially in areas where it is lacking, such as inner cities and rural areas. A bill pending in the state Assembly,  A.B. 1436, would define the scope of practice for NPs and PAs, thereby improving access to high quality health care for our patients.

Sample Letter for Campaign

Subject: Improve Access to Health Care by Defining Scope of Practice

Dear [ Decision Maker ] ,

I am a health care professional and a member of United Nurses Associations of California/Union of Health Care Professional, an AFSCME affiliate.

I'm writing to you today to ask for your support of A.B. 1436. Because my top priority is ensuring access to high quality health care for all Californians, it is important to me that nurse practitioners and physician assistants be able to use their skills and training to the fullest extent.

California is the only state that does not define the scope of practice for these categories of health care professionals, which often means their education and experience is not fully utilized. A.B. 1436 would define the scope of practice for NPs and PAs, thereby expanding access to quality health care for your constituents.

Sincerely,

Campaign Launched:
April 20, 2007


Background Information

Did you know that California is the ONLY state which does not define nurse practitioners' and physician assistants' scope of practice in statute or regulation?  Because of the lack of a defined scope, these health care professionals often are not fully utilized because of outdated laws that do not adequately recognize their education, training, skills and capabilities. This limits the our health care system’s ability to provide the very best possible care, especially in areas where it is lacking, such as inner cities and rural areas. A bill pending in the state Assembly,  A.B. 1436, would define the scope of practice for NPs and PAs, thereby improving access to high quality healthcare for our patients.

If you are a nurse practictioner or a physician assistant, this is an important opportunity to speak out on behalf of your profession and support a bill that would expand opportunities for yourself and your colleagues. If you are a registered nurse, please think about the NPs and PAs with whom you work everyday and support their efforts.