Physicians, nurse practitioners battle over proposal

(Harrisburg) — It’s physicians versus nurse practitioners in a battle that could re-shape a corner of the medical world.

Bills in the state legislature would allow NPs to run their own practices, without oversight from physicians.

The state’s Coalition of Nurse Practitioners are pushing for approval.

“It gives consumers choice as to which type of health care practitioner they go to for their care. I just don’t understand why the Medical Society is opposed,” says Susan Schrand with the coalition, calling a switch safe and effective.

Schrand says in states that have expanded NP’s options, hospitalizations and re-admissions declined.

But the powerful PA Medical Society says doctors should be the leaders of teams that provide medical care.

State representative Jesse Topper, sponsor of the House bill, says 19 states already have a similar system in place.

Topper, a Republican who represents part of Franklin County, also says the change will help close the health care provider gap.

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