What is required for Nurse Practitioners and Midwives to prescribe in New York State?

In New York State, Nurse Practitioners (NPs) and Midwives are required to have a written agreement or protocol with a collaborating physician in order to prescribe medication. This regulation ensures that there is a clear understanding of the scope of practice, responsibilities, and the specific conditions under which the NP or Midwife can prescribe, thereby enhancing patient safety and care quality.

The written agreement serves as a legal document that outlines the collaborative practice relationship, including details about patient assessment, treatment plan, and follow-up care, which reinforces the accountability of both the NP or Midwife and the collaborating physician.

While verbal agreements might exist in practice, they do not meet the legal requirements set forth by New York State law. It's also important to note that although some health care providers can operate independently without a supervisory agreement, NPs and Midwives specifically need to adhere to the established protocols to maintain their prescriptive authority.

This regulatory framework helps to ensure that patients receive comprehensive care while safeguarding their health needs within a structured collaborative environment.