First we should define what a nurse practitioner is.
A nurse practitioner (NP) is a registered nurse with advanced training and education. In addition to the degree needed to become a registered nurse, NPs also get master's or doctoral degrees. Furthermore, a Florida autonomous nurse practitioner has proven to the state of Florida that they have had enough independent experience under a physician (more then 3000 hours) in thier field to now practice autonomously without the need for oversight by or to be supervised by a physician.
A nurse practitioner is a nurse who is focused on providing evidence-based, empathic care to patients. Not only does this type of advanced practice nurse treat acute and chronic conditions—they also focus on preventive and holistic care.
Nurse practitioners and medical doctors share many of the same responsibilities. They can both diagnose, medically treat, and prescribe medications all while serving in the role as a primary care provider.
While doctors and nurse practitioners have many similarities, there are some notable differences. The biggest difference between the two is the amount of time spent on training. While NPs have more training than a registered nurse, they receive less training than a doctor.
An AUTONOMOUS nurse practitioner in the state of Florida, has been given signature authority the same as physician. These NPs have full practice authority, which means they can evaluate patients, order and interpret diagnostic tests, create and manage treatment plans, and prescribe medications—all without physician oversight.
Whether you see a nurse practitioner or a physician at OFMC you can count on all our providers to be compassionate and make your care priority one!
With the passing of HB 607 (Autonomous Practice) on March 11, 2020, autonomous NPs in Florida were born. The law went into affect July 1, 2020. In October of 2020, the first applications for existing experienced NPs became available. And on October 26, 2021, the law making process was completed and secured into law.
Advanced practice registered nurses who are registered pursuant to Section 464.0123, F.S., shall engage in autonomous practice only in a manner that meets the General Standard of Practice. The General Standard of Practice shall be that standard of practice, care, skill, and treatment which, in light of all relevant surrounding circumstances, is recognized as acceptable and appropriate by reasonably prudent similarly situated, educated, and licensed Advanced Practice Registered Nurses.
Rulemaking Authority 464.0123 FS. Law Implemented 464.0123 FS. History–New 10-26-21.
The Board of Nursing's definition of "primary care practice" is now in effect (as of February 25, 2021).
(12) Primary care practice - includes physical and mental health promotion, assessment, evaluation, disease prevention, health maintenance, counseling, patient education, diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic illnesses, inclusive of behavioral and mental health conditions.
This definition would be read in conjunction with Section 464.0123(3), Florida Statutes.
Copyright © 2025 Ormond Family Medical Center - All Rights Reserved. Terms of Service. Please note that all payments made on a credit card come with a 3.5% surcharge.