MCNP Holds Annual Health Policy Breakfast

BOSTON - April 11, 2018 - The Massachusetts Coalition of Nurse Practitioners (MCNP) today hosted its annual Health Policy Breakfast, inviting nurse practitioners from across the state to discuss current health care challenges facing the Commonwealth. The program focused on the impact of social determinants of health on health equity and how an awareness of this in health policies can reduce health care disparities.

Secretary Marylou Sudders, Executive Office of Health and Human Services, presented the keynote address. The event also featured a presentation by Thomas Sequist, M.D., the Chief Quality and Safety Officer at Partners HealthCare, and a panel discussion with Massachusetts healthcare stakeholders who are working to advance the health of the individuals in the communities they serve. “Massachusetts is a leader in health care with the highest insured rate in the nation. But, even in Massachusetts and across the United States, an individual’s zip code is still the most important determinant of health,” said Health and Human Services Secretary Marylou Sudders. “We must promote and invest in public health strategies that address societal factors, like housing and food instability, which can improve a person’s health and overall well-being.”

“As Nurse Practitioners, we see firsthand how an individual’s personal circumstances have a direct effect on their health and well-being. For some patients their address, income, or occupation puts them at an immediate disadvantage,” said Christine Malagrida, MCNP President.

MCNP has been advocating on behalf of our Bill, H.2451/S. 1257, An Act to Contain Health Care Costs and Improve Access to Value Based Nurse Practitioner Care as Recommended by the IOM and FTC.  Passing the bill will remove antiquated and unnecessarily restrictive licensing requirements for nurse practitioners (NPs) in Massachusetts and allow them to practice to the full extent of their education and training.  “As a Commonwealth, we must support policies to even the playing field and ensure quality access, care, and treatment no matter your background,” said Stephanie Ahmed, DNP, FNP-BC, Past MCNP President & Chair of the MCNP Legislative Committee.

Massachusetts is the only state in New England without Full Practice Authority for nurse practitioners and remains 1 of only 13 states in the nation with such restrictive licensing requirements for NPs.