APRNs advocate for more autonomy to treat patients

A public hearing was held at the State Capitol on a bill that would give Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) more autonomy in treating patients without requiring physician collaboration. Supporters hope the bill will become law this time, making Wisconsin the 29th state to grant full practice authority to APRNs. A similar bill was vetoed by Governor Tony Evers (D-WI) in 2024. Currently, APRNs in Wisconsin must collaborate with physicians to provide care, including prescribing medication. Advocates say this requirement creates unnecessary barriers to care.