Evidence indicates that CNS's provide safe and effective health care services to patients in Virginia.    CNS training, education and practice is well-suited to competently caring for those with chronic illness.The demand for this type of care is growing well-beyond what the current health care system can adequately meet.

 I am supportive of revising the current clinical nurse specialists regulations based upon theConsensus Model for APRN Regulations. By adopting the language of this model, the VIrginia Board of Nursing can ensure uniformity in licensure, accreditation, certification, and education to facilitate the regulation of safe and competent advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) including clinical nurse specialists. Thank you for thoughtfully considering my comments and this issue.