On April 2, 2026, a new law went into effect in New Jersey allowing independent practice for certain experienced advanced practice nurses (APNs).
Who Qualifies for Independent Practice?
Under the new law, APNs who meet the requirements for independent practice do not need to enter into a joint protocol with a physician for prescribing medications or devices, including authorizing patients for the medical use of cannabis.
Under the new law, APNs practicing in certain population focuses, including family or individual across the lifespan, adult gerontology, pediatrics, women’s health, and behavioral health, may prescribe medications and medical devices without a joint protocol with a collaborating physician, provided they meet the following requirements:
- Experience: At least 5,000 hours of licensed, active, advanced nursing practice in a role with the applicable population focus.
- Practice Area: The APN must provide primary or behavioral health care within one of the specified population focuses, including family practice, adult gerontology, pediatrics, women’s health, or behavioral health.
- Practice Restrictions: The APN may not provide services involving general obstetrics or elective aesthetic or cosmetic procedures.
- Additional Requirements: APNs must satisfy applicable malpractice insurance and pharmacology continuing education requirements. Furthermore, APNs providing behavioral health care services must take appropriate action to facilitate the timely referral, transfer, or admission to a higher level of care in the event the APN determines, based upon clinical judgment, that a patient requires such level of care. The determination is based upon a documented clinical assessment.
What Does This Mean for New Jersey APNs?
The law makes permanent the independent practice available to qualifying APNs during the COVID pandemic.
How Our Firm Can Help
Navigating the legal and regulatory requirements for independent APN practice can be complex. Our healthcare law firm assists APNs with regulatory compliance, practice formation, and related practice matters.
If you are an APN considering independent practice in New Jersey, contact our firm to discuss your eligibility and the legal requirements applicable to your practice.