October 20, 2011

Rules Allow APNs, Physician Assistants To Prescribe Controlled Substances
Rule amendments to the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services’ Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs will now enable advanced practice nurses and physician assistants to prescribe certain controlled substances. The amendments stem from a law passed in 2008 that permitted APNs and physician assistants to prescribe certain controlled substances under collaborative practice or supervision agreements with physicians.

Final orders of rulemaking published in today’s Missouri Register establish an electronic online application system, amend the registration process and fees, and clarify the conditions under which mid-level practitioners may prescribe and dispense controlled substances. The final rules will be published in the Code of State Regulations on Oct. 30 and are effective Nov. 30.

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