There are now 22 states plus the District of Columbia that awarded full practice authority to nurse practitioners. South Dakota is the latest addition that ends hurdles for patients who are in need of primary health care. Through passing this law, the patients will be given a high-quality health care.

The South Dakota State News reported that Gov. Dennis Daugaard, a Republican, signed a bill wherein it allows nurse practitioners and midwives to practice independently without the supervision of a physician. They can perform the full scope of services that they are educated for and at the same time clinically deliver it. The Senate Bill 61 allows nurses to practice independently as long as they earn about 1,040 hours under a physician’s supervision first.

The American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) salutes Gov. Daugaard and the South Dakota Legislature for passing the Senate Bill 61. AANP South Dakota Representative Robin Arends said in a statement that the new health care law is such a big win for many patients across the state.

Arends shared that “This is an important win for patients across the state. We are pleased that the state legislature and Governor Daugaard recognize the critical role of nurse practitioners in advancing the health of our citizens and the importance of attracting and retaining these high-quality providers in South Dakota.”

There are a lot of patients who are getting more comfortable and familiar with nurse practitioners as their option since the physician’s office is very busy and cannot accommodate them anymore. With the nurse practitioners around, they get a faster treatment routine and remedy. However, there is still a shortage of health care professionals, especially in the rural areas.

“There is a need for more health care professionals in rural areas of our state. This bill will eliminate a hurdle for some nurse practitioners and midwives who want to serve in those high-need communities,” said Gov. Daugaard.

Meanwhile, Jobs & Hire reported that nurse practitioners include in the high-paying jobs in the United States. They earn around $100,000 while some states require additional certifications.

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