Continued Advocacy Needed on NP Independent Practice; Five Ways to Oppose HB 4399 and SB 268

Late last month, bills were introduced in the House and Senate allowing for the unsupervised practice of medicine by nurse practitioners. House Bill 4399 was taken up by the House Health Policy Committee on April 30, May 7 and May 14. MAFP Board Chair Beena Nagappala, MD, MPH, FAAFP testified in opposition to the bill. MAFP thinks it is possible for Senate Bill 268 to move just as swiftly through the Senate Regulatory Affairs Committee. We know it’s dangerous legislation that could have severe consequences for patient outcomes and access to quality care. In other states, these measures consistently fail to improve access to care, fail to enhance quality of care, and fail to reduce costs. In short, they fail across the board, and patients are the ones who suffer.  

We need your help to ensure that does not happen here in Michigan. Contact your lawmakers today and urge them to OPPOSE House Bill 4399 and Senate Bill 268, which sacrifice the physician-led care team. Michigan’s patients deserve the very best when it comes to their care or the care of their loved ones, and there’s only one way to ensure that happens: The patient-centered care model, led by physicians and supported by the best-trained and most qualified care team members. This is the proven approach that ensures all Michigan patients receive the kind of quality care they expect and deserve.

What Can I Do?

1. Submit a Card of Opposition: The House Health Policy Committee will continue to deliberate House Bill 4399. Please complete this form and MAFP will submit a card of opposition on your behalf.  

2. Contact your legislators Immediately: Demand they oppose House Bill 4399 and Senate Bill 268. Emphasize the risks to Michigan's healthcare system and patients. This link provides you with a template letter and connects you directly with your Senator and Representative’s email.

3. Call your legislator’s offices: Find your legislator’s phone number here.

4. Attend coffee hours to discuss the issue: Find your legislators on social media and see if they have any upcoming public events. Here is a current list of in-district meetings. 

5. Spread the Word: Encourage your colleagues to join this critical effort.

Thank you in advance for your advocacy on this issue. If you have any questions, please email Chief Executive Officer Karlene Ketola, MSA, CAE at [email protected]