Full practice authority--effecting change and improving access to care: the Nevada journey

In 2013, Nevada shifted from a collaborative practice model to full practice authority. Given the challenges many states still face, this article provides an outline of the evolution of the "nurse practitioner" (NP) in Nevada. Reviewing the path Nevada took toward full practice authority, we hope to provide insight including lessons learned and opposition encountered to assist other states working toward full practice authority.

Literature searches were conducted on PubMed and MEDLINE. Search terms included "autonomous practice," "nurse practitioner," and "full practice authority."

Healthcare reform will require nurse practitioners committed to legislative change. Nurse practitioners have the knowledge and ability to affect the legislative process and improve patients' access to care. With careful planning, full engagement, and team building, making a statute change is possible and should be seriously considered in states still struggling with collaborative relationships.

Nurse practitioners are well situated to provide primary care in the United States. Removing barriers to practice through statute change will empower NPs to effect positive change in our struggling healthcare system.