| Expanding healthcare access
As access to health care remains a concern during the pandemic, two new states have expanded health care access by providing full practice authority to nurse practitioners.
Two new states – Delaware and Massachusetts – now allow experienced nurse practitioners to practice independently, no longer requiring the supervision of a physician. Nurse practitioners are educated to perform various primary care functions, diagnose, prescribe medications, and conduct physical exams. There are now 24 states, plus the District of Columbia, that grant full practice authority to nurse practitioners. Of interest, these are both “blue” states. This isn’t a partisan issue.
The Mississippi legislature attempted to join that group during the session earlier this year. A bill providing full practice authority passed the House but was held back in the Senate without a vote. Still, the need remains and the issue will be back next year.
The right decision
A new report uncovering the cost – and associated debt burden – with cosmetology schools shows the state made the right decision in freeing a number of beauty professions. During the last session, the state removed licensure requirements for the safe practices of eyebrow threading, applying makeup, and applying eyelash extensions. More than a decade ago, the state freed hair braiders.
The report found that, on average, cosmetology students borrow $7,100 in federal student loans, less than one-third graduate on time, and those that do, earn about $26,000 a year. That is less than restaurant cooks, janitors or concierges, none of whom must invest — by law — in costly education to work.
We should continue to look for alternatives to government licensing that protects the public and the financial wellbeing of those seeking careers.
– Russ |
