Advanced practice politics and the Oregon nurses' trail

As health care reform continues to evolve, it is important to consider the context of politics, practice, and power through an examination of nursing's recent history and participation in legislative events. Through a retrospective chronicle that includes interviews, recorded events, and article reviews, the political and legislative history of Oregon nurses in establishing advanced practice for nurse practitioners within the Oregon Nurse Practice Act is described. Prescriptive authority, hospital admitting privileges, and important elements contained in the Oregon Health Plan and Medicare reform are discussed. Questions are posed for the future of health care reform, such as the role of government in determining the quality of care in managed health care.