VAs Given Direct Access to APRNs

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) issued a final rule this week that permits advanced practice registered nurses (APRN), who are VA employees, full practice authority in all states. According to Becker’s Hospital Review, three types of APRNs are included in the rule; however, certified registered nurse anesthetists were excluded. AAHKS signed on to a letter with the AMA in July opposing the rule and urging the VA to prioritize team-based care rather than independent nursing practice.