ANPA COVID-19 Advocacy Information

During this time of crisis, Arkansas Nurse Practitioner Association is supporting the needs of nurse practitioners (NPs) throughout the state.  We are advocating for appropriate personal protective equipment, reduction of barriers limiting NPs ability to assist during this crisis, and increasing patient access to care.  We are working with the nursing RoundTable to influence policy change.  Through this group effort, we had conversations with Governor Hutchinson’s staff, Lieutenant Governor Griffin, Surgeon General Dr. Bledsoe, Federal Senator Tom Cotton, and many legislators throughout the state.  We shared information with the Arkansas Hospital Association, had a discussion with the Arkansas State Board of Nursing, communicated with the Arkansas Department of Health and various news media outlets.  We sent a letter to the Governor and co-signed other written communication.  Our interactions are building alliances and awareness of the barriers for NPs to fully assist during this emergency crisis.  Many of you responded to the survey from the Nursing RoundTable, this information is providing a means of sharing your stories (anonymously) to those who need to hear them (all those listed above).  

Stay safe while you’re out there battling on the frontlines to care for Arkansas patients.  Maintain the health of you and your family.  Most important, know even in “our silence” we are out there working to support NP practice in Arkansas.

If you haven’t responded to the RoundTable Survey, there is still time.  If you provide your contact, it is not shared.  Please provide your level of practice and where you live (City/Town) for demographics.  The link is here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/FTKCPQX