AMERICAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION HOUSE OF DELEGATES
(A-08)
Introduced by: Georgia Delegation
Subject: Doctor of Nursing Practice
Referred to: Reference Committee B
(Craig W. Anderson, MD, Chair)
Whereas, It is estimated that in the next ten to twelve years, there may be a shortfall of between 85,000-200,000 primary care physicians in the US; and
Whereas, This shortfall of physicians will be at a time the “Baby Boomers” will reach Medicare-eligible age and will require a more intense level of medical care; and
Whereas, It is prudent to increase the number of medical students dedicated to primary care to meet the needs of this aging population; and
Whereas, In response to this shortage in primary care physicians, nursing schools are considering launching doctorate programs to educate nursing students with skills allegedly equivalent to primary care physicians; and
Whereas, These nurses with doctorates will be able to be called “Doctor” and use the moniker “DrNP”; and
Whereas, The National Board of Medical Examiners is developing a voluntary DNP certification exam based on the same exams given to medical doctors to obtain their medical license; and
Whereas, There is currently an acute nursing shortage already and this program will exacerbate this problem further; and
Whereas, It is well recognized that the most effective patient care is a coordinated medical team of nurses under the auspices of a physician directed team approach; now therefore be it
RESOLVED, That our American Medical Association oppose the National Board of Medical Examiners participating in any credentialing procedures for Doctors of Nursing Practitioners (DrNP) and refrain from producing test questions to certify these DrNP candidates (New HOD Policy); and be it further
RESOLVED, That our AMA make it a legislative priority to urge Congress to increase funding for residency slots, particularly primary care physicians (Directive to Take Action); and be it further
RESOLVED, That our AMA adopt a policy that those nurses who are Doctors of Nursing Practice must only be able to practice under the supervision of a physician and as part of a medical team with the final authority and responsibility for the patient under the supervision of a licensed physician. (New HOD Policy)
Fiscal Note: Implement accordingly at estimated staff cost of $1,700.
Received: 05/07/08