Discuss  the next stage in policy development to overcome these barriers and increase patients’ access to APRNs.

The next stage in policy development to overcome the barriers to patient access to APRNs is to create a regulatory framework that aligns with current healthcare models and trends. This framework should include measures for increasing the visibility of these professionals, such as developing mentorship programs or offering additional educational opportunities for prospective APRN students. Additionally, legislation should be passed that grants autonomy and prescriptive authority to APRNs so they can assess and treat patients on their own without consulting a physician first.

Furthermore, reimbursement policies should also be reviewed and updated so that insurers are more likely to cover care provided by an APRN rather than requiring referral from a doctor; this would enable patients to receive quality care at lower costs. Finally, creating incentives for physicians who collaborate with APRNs could help encourage more interdisciplinary relationships between the two types of health professionals which could ultimately lead to improved patient care outcomes.  By addressing all these areas policymakers have an opportunity not only increase access but also improve health outcomes overall through better integration of primary care practices into healthcare systems.