Sherrill Changes How NJ Residents Get Prescriptions

A new law is changing the way that patients in New Jersey get prescription medications.

Gov. Mikie Sherrill signed S2996 into law on Monday, which allows advanced practice nurses (APNs) to prescribed meds without the supervision of a doctor.

“Today’s bill signing ensures that advanced practice nurses with extensive clinical experience are able to continue independently providing primary and behavioral health care services. At a time when the health care industry is facing significant workforce shortages and when my Administration is focused on driving down costs to consumers, the last thing we need is more barriers to practicing and accessing health care in New Jersey,” Sherrill said in a statement.

The law comes as a waiver signed into law by former Gov. Phil Murphy that exempt APNs from a "joint protocol" - an agreement for a doctor to supervise prescriptions - was set to expire.

This legislation makes permanent the independent practice authority of certain APNs who provide primary or behavioral health care.

APNs need to have at least 5,000 hours of practice before being exempt from the joint protocol.

Nurses can also prescribe behavioral health meds under the law.

“From youth mental health services to preventative care, taking action to remove these unneeded administrative barriers will help ensure New Jersey residents have access to the high-quality services that they deserve,” Sherrill said.