A new public health study and data analysis funded by the T.L.L. Temple Foundation found that Tex
as can alleviate its primary care provider shortage by 32% by removing a state mandate on Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRN), like nurse practitioners, that requires them to obtain and maintain a contract with a physician in order to practice. The study also found that removing the restrictions would generate thousands of new jobs and save the state of Texas up to $47.7 million in the first biennium alone.
Texas’ unmet need for healthcare services is projected to worsen over the next several decades, notably in primary and psychiatric care. Already, 228 counties are designated as Primary Care Health Professional Shortage Areas.
Texas Senator César Blanco has filed the HEAL Texans Act (SB 1700) to modernize state law, remove the contract requirement on APRNs, and help alleviate our state’s healthcare workforce shortage by expanding quality, local healthcare options for patients.
Key Findings from the Study:
Care from Advanced Practice Registered Nurses is effective and safe. APRNs represent just 2% of all medical malpractice claims, both in Texas and nationally.
Removing practice restrictions on APRNs will result in an estimated cost savings for the state of Texas of up to $47.7 million in the first biennium when examining Texas Medicaid and the Teacher Retirement System of Texas.
Loosening current restrictions will generate more than 4,000 new jobs in Texas and add nearly $500 million to the Texas GDP in the first year. The GDP gains jump to $2.3 billion after five years and $4.6 billion after 10.
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