Some states place restrictions on the practice of nurse practitioners (NPs). These restrictions or limitations of practice require NPs to enter into career-long collaborations with physicians or other healthcare providers to perform their duties. South Carolina operates under the “Restricted Practice” policy, which severely limits the type of patient care NPs are allowed to administer.
As a prospective NP, you can join the campaign to provide a freer work environment in the state. The benefits of allowing NPs more autonomy are increased access to healthcare and higher job satisfaction. You can join other NPs in the South Carolina Nurses Association and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) to strengthen the public’s awareness of the restrictions. Nursing associations can also lobby legislators and advocate to change laws that restrict the practice of nurse practitioners in the state.