Texas operates one of the country’s most highly regulated environments for advanced practice nurses (APNs), particularly nurse practitioners, greatly restricting the ability of these highly qualified medical professionals to operate effectively and provide alternative health care services to Texas consumers.
A proven way for Texas lawmakers to improve primary health care access
The shortage of primary care providers isn't just a rural issue. Shortages are found in major metropolitan areas and impact Texans of all coverage stripes — those with private insurance, no insurance, CHIP or Medicaid. A recent survey by Dallas-based Merritt Hawkins showed the nationwide average wait time to see a family practice physician in mid-sized cities was up to 122 days. That’s four months to find out if your belly pain is gas, an ulcer or cancer.