The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has described as “timely” Senate Bill (SB) No. 1447 on the proposed Philippine Nursing Practice Act of 2022 that “would amplify the dignity of the country's nurses.”

In a statement, the CHR said the proposed legislation introduces a new provision on the Advanced Practice Nurse (APN), an expanded and more collaborative role for qualified nurses to allow more efficient access to Universal Health Care for all Filipinos.

Based on the bill authored by Senator Francis N. Tolentino, APNs refer to nurses who, aside from being board passers, have acquired a "substantial level of theoretical knowledge and decision-making skill in a specialty area of nursing practice and demonstrated proficiency in clinical utilization of such knowledge" from a recognized higher educational institution.

The bill also authorizes the practice of "Agreed Upon Based Care" in which APNs -- through mutual agreement with and approval by the primary physician in charge -- are permitted to conduct patient care through teleconsultation or other means of communication during emergency circumstances such as unavailability of a physician or lack of a physician due to the inaccessibility of an area.

"The indisputable contributions of nurses in the country and abroad merit urgent and meaningful solutions that address their long-standing issues," the CHR said.

It expressed hopes for the swift enactment of SB 1447 “because boosting the role of nurses will translate to better delivery of service to Filipinos.”

With the enactment of the law, the CHR said that nurses will be provided with decent working conditions, ensured professional growth, and comprehensive nursing practice standards.

“We also note its provision of a Philippine Professional Nursing Roadmap, which would establish a long-term strategy for the Philippine nursing industry,” it said.

“Alongside these, CHR also joins the call for the immediate release of health workers' hazard pay and bonuses for their response during the pandemic. As part of the right to health, the government must also uphold conditions that would ensure available, accessible, and good quality public health and medical facilities, goods, and services for all,” it added.

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