As the nursing law, which expands the authority of physician assistant (PA) nurses, is set to take effect on the 21st, the Korean Nurses Association (KNA) is raising its voice against the subordinate regulation regarding educational operation.
The government plans to operate PA nurse education as a reporting system, but the KNA argues that a credible certification system should be introduced instead of a reporting system.
The Korean Nurses Association (KNA) held a second rally in front of the Ministry of Health and Welfare's Sejong government complex on the 2nd, claiming, "The government's assertion to operate PA nurse education as a 'reporting system' is a dangerous notion that cannot guarantee safety and skills." According to the KNA, about 10,000 nurses participated in the rally that day. The nurses also performed a 'certificate tearing' performance.
The nursing law containing provisions for the legalization of PA nurses passed the National Assembly on April 28th last year. At that time, the nursing community welcomed it greatly. However, after that, there were conflicting views between the nursing and medical communities regarding the specific scope of duties and education for PA nurses, leading to discord.
According to the rules set by the Ministry of Health and Welfare, PA nurses are categorized into 'specialist nurses' and 'dedicated nurses.' Specialist nurses must have completed a master's-level education program and have three years of clinical experience. Dedicated nurses can perform their duties after completing the educational program mandated by the Ministry with at least three years of clinical experience. However, those with over one year of experience in supportive medical duties can perform their work even if they have less than three years of clinical experience. Upon completion of education, a certificate of completion will be issued.
Education for supportive medical personnel consists of theoretical and practical education and practical training at the affiliated medical institution. Educational institutions include relevant associations such as the KNA, the Korean Medical Association, the Korean Hospital Association, hospitals with over 300 beds, specialized nurse education institutions, public health support centers, and other institutions or organizations deemed capable of conducting dedicated nurse education courses by the Minister.
The KNA urged, "A systematic control tower should be established to maintain and supervise the quality of supportive medical work," and "A credible certification system for supportive medical personnel should be introduced to secure medical trustworthiness."
The Ministry of Health and Welfare stated at a related public hearing held on the 21st of last month that it would create a standard plan for training supportive medical personnel and approve institutions that can implement education based on that content as educational institutions.