NP not allowed to sign IHSS forms

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I am a nurse practitioner. This week all my patients were returning the IHSS form I signed. They told me that nurse practitioners are not allowed to sign the form. All other clinicians can sign the forms in including PA and public health nurses but not nurse practitioners. Who can I send this complaint to? Or, do you know how I can pursue this.

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Specializes in Tele, ICU, Staff Development.

Dear Not Allowed,

I understand that this must seem absurd and be frustrating for you.

The In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) program provides services to eligible persons with disabilities who cannot remain safely in their homes without assistance. IHSS is an alternative to out-of-home care, such as nursing homes or board and care facilities

A licensed healthcare professional must sign the in-home certification form. The state-issued form you are referring to may have overlooked including Nurse Practitioners (NPs) in the list of licensed healthcare professionals who can sign the certification while providing examples of professionals such as PAs and public health nurses.

It could be your form is being denied on a technicality rather than an intentional act. In other words, it could be an oversight.

There isn't a nationwide restriction on nurse practitioners (NPs) signing In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) forms. However, regulations vary by state, so you must check your specific state's policies to get the most accurate and up-to-date information.

To find out whether NPs can sign IHSS forms in your state, you can:

  • Contact state IHSS Offices. Reach out to the IHSS program office or equivalent agency in the state where you are practicing. They should be able to provide information on the current regulations and policies regarding who can sign IHSS forms.
  • Check state nursing board regulations. Look into the regulations set by the state nursing board. They may outline the scope of practice for nurse practitioners in that state, including any restrictions or permissions related to signing certain forms.
  • Consult with colleagues. Talk to colleagues or mentors who are NPs in your state. They may have firsthand experience or be aware of any recent regulation changes.
  • Professional organizations. Contact professional organizations related to nurse practitioners in your state. They may have resources or be able to guide you to the relevant information.

Best wishes, I hope you find clarification soon.

Nurse Beth

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