Abstract
Mandated collaborative or supervisory agreements are a restriction to practice for nurse practitioners (NPs) in the United States. According to the Pearson Report (Pearson, 2012), 18 states and the District of Columbia allow NPs to practice without mandated agreements. Progress toward autonomy is being made as many states remove collaborative agreement requirements. These victories are significant but many NPs continue to work in restrictive practice environments. Stiff opposition from the American Medical Association (AMA) is one obstacle to removing these restrictions. Opponents to the removal of mandated agreements cite a concern for patient safety and the educational preparation NPs receive. The evidence regarding safety is not supported by current data and a comparison of the educational requirements for NPs to other providers reveals NPs have a strong background in science and clinical training. This article explores the issues surrounding mandatory practice agreements.
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