Oklahoma's legislature has taken a significant step toward expanding healthcare access by advancing House Bill 2298 (HB 2298), which grants independent prescriptive authority to certain Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs). This move aims to address provider shortages, especially in rural and underserved areas, by allowing qualified APRNs to prescribe medications without physician oversight.
Key Provisions of HB 2298
HB 2298 permits Certified Nurse Practitioners, Clinical Nurse Specialists, and Certified Nurse-Midwives to apply for independent prescriptive authority upon completing 6,240 hours of supervised clinical practice. Applicants must hold a valid Oklahoma license in good standing and meet specific educational requirements. The independent prescriptive authority aligns with the APRN's license renewal cycle and can be suspended or revoked by the Oklahoma Board of Nursing if necessary.
Additional stipulations include:
- Mandatory malpractice insurance coverage of at least $1 million per occurrence and $3 million annually.
- Establishment of a Formulary Advisory Council to develop prescribing guidelines and an exclusionary formulary.
- Revisions to the Oklahoma Pharmacy Act, Nursing Practice Act, and Uniform Controlled Dangerous Substances Act to accommodate these changes.
Legislative Progress
Introduced by Representative Kyle Hilbert and Senator Lonnie Paxton, HB 2298 has garnered bipartisan support. The House passed the bill on March 25, 2025, with a 55–38 vote, and the Senate followed on May 8, 2025, with a 34–13 vote. As of May 12, 2025, the bill has been engrossed and awaits further action.
Implications for Healthcare Access
By empowering APRNs with independent prescriptive authority, Oklahoma aims to enhance healthcare delivery, particularly in areas lacking sufficient medical providers. This legislation aligns with national trends recognizing the critical role of APRNs in expanding access to care.
For more information on HB 2298, visit the Oklahoma Legislature's official page.
