Doctors of Nursing Practice (DNP) are highly educated, well-trained medical professionals that can provide life-saving medical care, especially for communities where physicians are sparse. While the extent of medical practice that DNPs can implement is narrower than say, a board-certified surgeon, DNPs are a vital component of all types of medical care, from emergency rooms to labor and delivery.
Can a DNP Practice Independently in California?
The short answer is yes, thanks to Assembly Bill 890, there is now a pathway for DNPs to practice independently in California.
While DNPs hold advanced qualifications and play critical roles in healthcare, they are not currently allowed to practice independently in California in the same way that physician assistants (PAs) or medical doctors (MDs) can.
Before the adoption of Assembly Bill 890, all nurse practitioners, including those with a DNP, were required to have a supervisory or collaborative agreement with a physician to practice.
California nurse practitioner independent practice has been more restrictive compared to some other states, including those with advanced degrees like a DNP. Several states have allowed nurse practitioners autonomy to assess, diagnose, interpret diagnostic tests, and initiate treatment plans without a physician in a supervisory role.
However, the scope of practice for DNP professionals has evolved significantly in recent years due to recent legislative changes that have changed the regulations for nurse practitioners in California. AB 890, signed into law in 2020, marks a shift in these regulations. This bill, effective from January 1, 2023, allows nurse practitioners to practice with greater autonomy compared to previous regulations.
This bill will benefit those in underserved and rural communities who have often struggled to find access to quality healthcare. The DNPs who complete the long transition period, historically required to practice under the supervision of a physician, will alleviate the shortage in medical providers in California.
While the pathway to independent practice for DNPs in California is promising, it still involves a structured transition. AB 890 acknowledges their advanced education and training but requires them to complete 4,600 hours of supervised clinical practice and an additional three years at the same facility. This means that although DNPs are set to gain greater autonomy, the transition will take time, with the first fully independent practitioners expected to emerge by early 2026. As the regulations evolve, DNPs will be essential in addressing the healthcare provider shortage, especially in underserved and rural communities, enhancing access to quality care across the state.