Michigan State Medical Society President M. Salim Siddiqui, MD, PhD, today commended State Representative Alabas Farhat (D-Dearborn) for prioritizing the health and safety of all Michigan patients by introducing House Bill 4472.  This legislation would require advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) to practice as part of physician-led, patient-centered care teams, where they would practice within the scope of their usual professional activities.

“As physicians, we know that the COVID-19 pandemic brought to light the need for a robust healthcare system that can meet the needs of all patients, regardless of their location or socioeconomic status; but we cannot let the COVID-19 pandemic be used as excuse to expand scope of practice of health care team members beyond their training and experience for doing so threatens the health and safety of all Michigan patients,” warned Doctor Siddiqui.

As a relentless advocate for patients and their highest quality care, Doctor Siddiqui said, “The research and data strongly indicate that physician-led, patient-centered care teams are the best approach to increase healthcare access without compromising patient safety or quality of care.”  He notes that Representative Farhat’s legislation ensures that rural and underserved communities have access to physician-led, patient-centered care at a lower cost and higher quality, which is something that both physicians and patients alike overwhelmingly support.  “As Michigan State Medical Society will always advocate for what is best for the patients we serve and for the physicians that serve those patients, we strongly support and will advocate for House Bill 4472,” said Doctor Siddiqui.

HB 4472 would require APRNs to maintain appropriate collaboration and consultation as provided under a written practice agreement with a patient care team physician.

“At the Michigan State Medical Society, we believe that collaboration and communication are key to delivering high-quality healthcare.  HB 4472 establishes a framework for such teamwork, ensuring that patients receive care that is tailored to their specific needs and goals,” said Doctor Siddiqui.  Under HB 4472, practice agreements would also include:

• A process for communication, availability, and decision-making when providing medical treatment to a patient. The process must utilize the knowledge and skills of the APRN and patient care team physician based on their education, training, and experience.
• The duties and responsibilities of the APRN and patient care team physician
• A provision for appropriate physician input in complex clinical cases, patient emergencies, and referrals
• A clear statement describing the controlled substance prescription practices of the APRN, including the controlled substances the APRN is or is not authorized to prescribe.