Senator Camera Bartolotta announced the formation of the “Nurses for Bartolotta” coalition, a growing group of nurse practitioners, registered nurses, health care professionals, and patient advocates supporting her re-election campaign and her ongoing work to strengthen Pennsylvania’s health care system.
The coalition launched at a press conference in Southpointe, Washington County, where Senator Bartolotta was joined by more than a dozen nursing professionals from across the 46th Senatorial District.
According to a release from the senator’s office, Bartolotta has been a leading advocate for nurses and patients in Harrisburg, most notably as the prime sponsor of Senate Bill 25, which would grant full practice authority to nurse practitioners in Pennsylvania. Under current law, nurse practitioners must enter into costly and burdensome collaborative agreements.
Senate Bill 25 would align Pennsylvania with 28 other states – including several neighboring states – that have removed this mandate, allowing nurse practitioners to practice to the full extent of their training.
“Senator Bartolotta’s leadership on Senate Bill 25, along with her support for additional legislation to strengthen the nursing workforce, provides nurses with necessary tools and resources, and improve recruitment and training efforts, has earned her broad support from nurses throughout the district.” according to her office Dr. Jennifer Bowman, DNP, PMHNP, will serve as Chair of the Nurses for Bartolotta coalition.
“She has made expanding access to quality health care and supporting local nurses a top priority,” Bowman said at the press conference. “Because her district includes many rural areas, she has led legislative efforts to allow experienced nurse practitioners to open or expand practices in underserved communities. This reduces patient travel time and keeps care local, assisting hospitals and clinics that struggle to recruit physicians.”
Health care advocate Brian Mehalik, who works in the pharmaceutical industry, underscored the stakes for patients and providers across the Commonwealth.
“Support for Senator Bartolotta is critical if Pennsylvania wants to increase patient access to high-quality health care and reduce costs,” Mehalik said. In her remarks, Senator Bartolotta highlighted the sacrifices and dedication of nurses across the district and the Commonwealth.
“Our nurses face high-stress situations every day,” she said. “They miss holidays and family events. They carry emotional burdens most people never see – all to save lives and care for our loved ones. They are the backbone of the 46th District, of Pennsylvania, and of our nation.”
The Nurses for Bartolotta coalition aims to engage and mobilize nursing professionals throughout the 46th Senatorial District to support policies and legislators who prioritize nurses and patient-centered care.
Senator Bartolotta represents the 46th Senatorial District, which includes Greene County, Washington County, and parts of Beaver County.
