I fully support the changes to the CNS Regulations proposed by the Virginia Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists. The changes will bring CNS practice in Virginia closer to alignment with the Consensus Model for APRN Regulation (2008) from the National Council of State Boards of Nursing, and with CNS regulations in neighboring states.

Clinical Nurse Specialists have advanced education and certification as a CNS in our specialty areas and are recognized as billing providers by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Despite these facts, the lack of full practice authority and the lack of licensure as clinical nurse specialist are barriers keeping us from practicing to the full extent of our education. The proposed regulation changes will be the first steps in removing the barriers and will improve access to care to the citizens of the Commonwealth.

I urge you to approve the proposed changes to the Regulations.