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The Ohio State University Launches Its Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program

Client Alert

In response to Ohio’s nursing shortage, The Ohio State University College of Nursing is accepting applications for its new Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing program (aBSN). Created for students with a bachelor’s degree in non-nursing fields, the aBSN allows such students to obtain their nursing degree within 18 months. All aBSN students will participate in high-quality coursework and gain valuable clinical experience. Upon completion of the program, graduates will be eligible to take the State Board, National Council of Licensure Exam for Registered Nursing (NCLEX-RN). 

The program’s first cohort will commence this summer, with applications due by March 1. In addressing the program’s goals, the Assistant Dean for Baccalaureate Programs in the College of Nursing, Wendy Bowles, stated that “[w]e know we can help the community through supporting more students becoming nurses and our practice partners are ready to provide great opportunities to grow these nurses to their highest potential. This is going to be a highly sought-after program, I’m sure.” Bowles further stated, “[t]here is a shortage in nursing. . . that’s where we can help.”

Ohio healthcare providers may greatly benefit from a program like OSU’s aBSN. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing suggests that the U.S. will face a nursing shortage through 2030. In addition to nursing shortages, the Association of American Medical Colleges predicts that the U.S. “could see an estimated shortage of between 37,800 and 124,000 physicians by 2034, including shortfalls in both primary and specialty care.” 

Fighting against the continued shortage within the healthcare force, Ohio providers may seek those who have completed OSU’s aBSN to enter their healthcare community and successfully serve patients. OSU’s aBSN will allow healthcare providers to employ highly qualified individuals to improve care and access to it across Ohio communities. 

Should you have any questions about the content of this Client Alert, please contact BMD Healthcare Member Daphne Kackloudis at dlkackloudis@bmdllc.com.


New Federal Medical Conscience Rule and Its Implications

The Department of Health and Human Services Office for Civil Rights issued a Final Rule to clarify protections for healthcare providers who refuse services based on religious or moral beliefs. This includes protection against discrimination for refusing procedures like assisted suicide or abortion. The OCR can receive complaints, conduct investigations, and enforce these protections. Entities are encouraged to update policies accordingly and display a model notice provided by the OCR.

Marijuana Reclassification and APRN/PA Prescribing

Marijuana is expected to be reclassified by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) from a Schedule I controlled substance to a Schedule III controlled substance as a result of efforts by the Biden administration.

Federal Trade Commission Voids Non-Compete Agreements Nationwide

On April 23, 2024, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (“FTC”) issued its Final Rule containing regulations impacting non-compete agreements across the country for all employees. The Final Rule implements some of the most impactful changes to employment law during this century. The Final Rule will take effect 120 days from its publication in the Federal Register, which we expect to occur within the next few weeks.

Department of Labor Finalizes Rule with Substantial Salary Increases for White-Collar Overtime Exemptions

On April 23, 2024, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) announced a final rule that will significantly impact overtime eligibility for white-collar employees under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). This rule implements a dramatic increase in the minimum salary level required for an employee to be exempt under the FLSA’s administrative, executive, and professional exemptions (the so-called “white collar exemptions”) as well as the FLSA’s highly compensated employee exemption.

Chemical Dependency Professionals Board Rule Changes: Part 2

New rule changes for Certification of Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistants (CDCA)