Food and Drug Administration (FDA) |
Federal |
Food, drugs, medical devices, biologics, cosmetics, and radiation-emitting products |
Ensures the safety, efficacy, and security of drugs, medical devices, and other consumer products. |
APRNs must be aware of FDA-approved medications, device guidelines, and drug safety information. |
All specialties, as APRNs prescribe medications and utilize medical devices. |
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) |
Federal |
Medicare, Medicaid, and CHIP programs; healthcare provider reimbursement and regulations |
Administers national health insurance programs, sets reimbursement rates, and regulates healthcare providers participating in these programs. |
APRNs must understand CMS regulations, billing codes, and reimbursement policies for their practice. |
All specialties, particularly those working in settings with Medicare/Medicaid patients. |
Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) |
Federal |
Healthcare workforce, access to healthcare, and health disparities |
Provides healthcare workforce development, support for underserved populations, and resources to improve health equity. |
APRNs can utilize HRSA resources for professional development, access to funding opportunities, and information on serving underserved communities. |
Relevant to all specialties, particularly those working in rural areas, with underserved populations, or focusing on health disparities. |
National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) |
Non-governmental (National) |
Healthcare quality and accreditation; quality improvement initiatives |
Accredits healthcare organizations and programs, sets quality standards, and promotes healthcare quality improvement. |
APRNs must understand NCQA standards and participate in quality improvement initiatives within their practice settings. |
All specialties, as NCQA accreditation influences patient care and practice settings. |
State Boards of Nursing (BONs) |
State |
Nursing licensure, scope of practice, and professional conduct |
Regulates nursing practice within each state, sets licensure requirements, and enforces professional standards. |