Health insurers have arbitrarily reduced reimbursement for ARNP services down to just 85% of their usual rates.
In his Seattle Times op/ed Dr. Benjamin Danielson argues that inequities in reimbursement rates lead to inequities in care.
Advanced RN practitioners deserve equitable reimbursement
As a pediatrician, I have devoted my career to increase needed health care access with a focus on eliminating racism and other inequities.
The COVID-19 pandemic’s devastating impact has heightened our need for primary, specialty and behavioral health care providers. Across our state, particularly in rural and underserved areas, the need for advanced registered nurse practitioners (ARNPs) has never been higher. Many people in our communities need vaccines, others have delayed health screenings and preventive care, and still others are experiencing greater mental health needs.
The more than 6,000 ARNPs across this state provide every aspect of health care, spanning primary care, anesthesiology, midwifery, mental health and more. Some ARNPs own their own primary care or behavior health practices, others work in hospitals, ambulatory surgical centers and physician-owned practices. Their extensive training and education, full prescriptive authority and dedication allow them to work in any setting, making them essential parts of our business infrastructure and beloved communities.