March 29, 2010

Medication Prescribing Practices of CRNPs in Mental Health Programs and Mental Retardation Programs

On April 22, 2010 the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare (DPW), Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS) and the Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) advised their planning advisory committees of a change in DPW practice/policy regarding Certified Registered Nurse Practitioners (CRNPs) and their ability to prescribe medication. The joint Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services and Office of Developmental Programs Bulletin issued this bulletin announcing the change. This bulletin states that subjects with certain conditions that medications may be prescribed by a Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner (CRNP) for individuals who receive services in a facility licensed under 55 Pa.Code Chapters: 2380, 5200, 5210, 6400, and 6500. This new statement of policy is effective upon publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin. This report also contains a scope, discussion, guidelines, statement of policy, and contact information.