Rule clarifies ability of VA nurses to practice across state lines

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) released an interim final rule this week clarifying its authority to allow VA nurses and other health care professionals to deliver health care services in a state other than their state of licensure, registration or certification. This rulemaking “will provide an increased level of protection against any adverse State action being proposed or taken against VA health care professionals who practice within the scope of their VA employment,” the rule states. The rule also confirms the agency plans to establish national standards of practice for VA health care professionals. The rule will take effect upon publication in the Nov. 12 Federal Register, with comments accepted for 60 days. AONL has long supported nurses working to the top of their education and licensure, which the VA rule allows. (AHA News article, 11/10/20)