AANP Health Policy Conference

2013 National Nurse Practitioner Health Policy Conference

February 24-26, 2013

By all accounts, the AANP 2013 National Nurse Practitioner Health Policy Conference held February 24 – 26 in Washington, DC was a huge success. More than 200 NPs attended the three-day meeting to discuss legislative issues, meet with leadership on Capitol Hill, advocate for legislation affecting NP practice and network with friends and colleagues from around the country.  The high-energy gathering was a great beginning for the "new" AANP and set the pace for future participation by NPs as true advocates both for their role as providers of high-quality health care and for their patients.

Sessions on the first day of the conference addressed major policy issues in health care and how they impact NPs, with discussions about challenges to multistate reimbursement and changes in NP scope of practice regulation and relationship with the workforce.  A luncheon presentation by Brande Ellis, of Eli Lilly and Company, discussed "Risk Evaluation Mitigation Strategy."  That afternoon attendees learned how NPs fit into ACOs, heard about AARP's involvement in action coalitions through their "Campaign for Action" and learned about the role of money in politics and policy.   A session on policy messages for Capitol Hill visits ended the first day's meetings.  An AANP PAC Fundraiser was held on Sunday evening featuring a silent auction and raffle. Among the many items offered were a Coach briefcase; a basket of gift cards from restaurants and shops; a signed, framed letter from Eleanor Roosevelt; three glass White House Easter eggs; an Air Force One throw; and a framed, signed photograph from Milvina Dean, the youngest survivor of the Titanic.  The PAC raised approximately $8500 from the event.  Thanks to all who participated and helped to make the evening a success.

The second day of the conference began with a look at competition in health care through the role of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).  The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) then shared information on key healthcare issues for 2013.  Mara Liasson, National Political Correspondent for National Public Radio (NPR) and Fox News Contributor, delivered the luncheon speech on what the 2013 political environment means for the country and for health care.  Afternoon sessions focused on the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) priorities for 2013 and ended with an open forum on how to effectively lobby the Hill.  The final day of the conference saw participants attending a morning political fundraiser and preparing for visits to legislators and their staff on Capitol Hill to discuss legislative priorities for NPs and their patients.

Chief among the top priorities is improving access to high-quality health care for all Americans.  "With the shortage of primary care physicians and increasing demand for health care services, it is critical that federal policy empower NPs to practice to the full extent of their education and experience," said AANP President Angela Golden, DNP, FNP-C, FAANP.  "Legislators should expect to hear more from AANP leaders and members about the necessity of key policy changes."

Issue Briefs created for the Conference are available in the Federal Legislation Issue Briefs page.

The 2013 Health Policy Conference was such a success that we are already planning the 2014 event.  More information will be available as plans are developed and confirmed.  We thank everyone who participated in the 2013 conference and invite you to click here to view photos from the event.