An Act to remove barriers to patient care

This bill (H 4617) allows advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) to fulfill certain healthcare documentation requirements currently limited to physicians. Specifically, it amends Massachusetts health laws to permit APRNs to provide diagnostic evaluations, medical necessity determinations, written orders, prescriptions, and treatment recommendations for insurance coverage and reimbursement purposes. The bill explicitly states it does not expand APRNs' existing scope of practice. It directly affects healthcare providers (APRNs and physicians), healthcare facilities, and insurers by changing reimbursement eligibility rules.