Foundations of APN Practices

The Laws, Rules and Agencies that Govern APN Practice in Texas

Click on the links below for more information.

Texas Health Care Professions' Practice Acts - laws and rules regarding health care providers being permitted by law and rule to accept orders or referrals from an APN.

Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) - statutes/rules regarding benefits, limitations and conditions for participation and reimbursement, home health services, ordering lab and radiology services, etc.

Health & Safety Code - provisions that include Texas Health Steps, immunization requirements, reporting communicable diseases, etc.

Department of Aging and Disability Services (DADS) - statutes regarding patients in long-term care facilities, in Intermediate Care Facilities for the Mentally Retarded, or state schools.

Texas Education Agency (TEA) - statutes/rules regarding school health programs, i.e. immunizations, reporting child abuse/neglect, special education, etc.

Federal Rules - federal rules and regulations regarding Medicare and Medicaid Services, ordering diagnostic tests, hospice care, etc.

Practice Issues for NPs and CNSs - key points regarding practice issues for NPs and CNSs, which includes important roles, degree requirements, limitations, etc.