The American Association of Nurse Practitioners applauds the legislative action taken by Gov. John Carney and the Delaware General Assembly to ensure Delawareans have unimpeded access to high-quality healthcare delivered by the clinician of their choice.

With the passage of House Bill 141, an Act to Amend Title 24 of the Delaware Code Relating to Advanced Practice Registered Nurses, Delaware joins 23 other states, the District of Columbia and two U.S. territories in adopting full practice authority legislation, streamlining healthcare delivery by granting patients full and direct access to the comprehensive services nurse practitioners are educated and clinically prepared to provide.

Passage of this legislation bolsters efforts to reduce healthcare disparities and increase health equity throughout the state.

"As our state contends with a heightened need for healthcare, this law represents a necessary and positive step toward removing roadblocks that impede equitable access to high-quality healthcare," said Sharon Baptiste-Brown, MSN, APRN-BC, GNP, AANP Delaware state representative. "Today, we commend the state Legislature and Gov. Carney for prioritizing the health of patients and recognizing the vital contributions NPs make to improving health and eliminating disparities in healthcare delivery. This law will increase Delaware's ability to meet the current needs of patients and it will increase future capacity by attracting NPs to the state."

"Delaware is the second state this year to enact FPA legislation and enlist NPs as key partners in addressing unprecedented health needs and persistent disparities in healthcare access and outcomes," said April N. Kapu, DNP, APRN, ACNP- BC, FAANP, FCCM, FAAN, president of AANP. "States with FPA demonstrate a proven track record for increasing accessibility and patient satisfaction, while maintaining excellent care quality and outcomes. We are encouraged to see other states looking to modernize their laws, eliminate healthcare disparities, and increase healthcare access and choice for patients by fully engaging the NP workforce."