Nurse practitioners in Massachusetts granted full practice authority

The start of the new year means the start of full practice authority for nurse practices (NP) in Massachusetts. Governor Charlie Baker signed legislation that went into effect on January 1, 2021 that allows NPs to practice independently in Massachusetts. The state currently had an emergency executive order in place that temporarily expanded NPs scope of practice during the COVID-19 pandemic. This new legislation makes those rules permanent.

Massachusetts is the 23rd state to allow NPs to practice independently. Although NPs have advanced training, many states still require they have a supervision agreement with a physician. 

“Massachusetts is the latest state to embrace a better care delivery model that recognizes NPs as part of the solution for addressing increasing healthcare needs,” said AANP President Sophia L. Thomas. “This decision aligns with the evidence and recommendations for NP licensure from leading health policy groups like the National Academy of Medicine. Research shows that states with full practice authority maintain strong safety and quality outcomes and improve both access to care and cost savings.”