In 2023, in response to a set of proposed telemedicine rules, the US Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) received more than 38,000 comments and held two days of public listening sessions. In light of that feedback and discussion, and to give DEA time to consider a new path forward for telemedicine, DEA and the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) extended current telemedicine flexibilities through the end of 2025. 

The full text of the extension, entitled “Third Temporary Extension of COVID-19 Telemedicine Flexibilities for Prescription of Controlled Medications,” was submitted to the Federal Register jointly with HHS on Nov. 15, 2024. Read more about the extension.

As discussed in the Summer 2024 Sentinel, there are three key aspects an RN needs to consider when practicing in a community-based setting: scope, setting, and role.  The article, entitled, “Nursing Practice in A Community-Based Setting: What the Oregon-Licensed RN Needs to Know,” elaborates on all three aspects and also lists a variety of education opportunities related to practice in community-based settings.  The rules that govern this element of practice are found in Division 47 of the Nurse Practice Act. For more information after reviewing the article, check out the Division 47 Rule Change Advisory or watch the Division 47 Lunch and Learn presentation.

Over the last few months, board staff has worked with community partners to reduce barriers to becoming a nurse intern and hopefully increase the numbers of this under-used license type.  As of 12/1/24, new rules went into effect that provide more pathways for students to apply for a nurse intern license and at an earlier point in their nursing education. For more information, please review the Division 41 Rule Change Advisory.

Licensing Tip: National Certifications

All nurse practitioners and CRNAs must have proof of current national certification on file in the OSBN office to renew their Oregon nursing license. 

When you renew your national certification, remember to send a copy to OSBN.LicenseVerifications@osbn.oregon.gov to avoid delays during your license renewal.

If you have never donated blood before, this upcoming blood drive at the OSBN offices may be the perfect opportunity for you to become a first-time blood donor.  Donating blood is quick (less than an hour) and easy (register, get screened, donate, then cookies & juice).  Check out eligibility guidelines at before scheduling a donation time. 

• DATE: January 16, 2025, 9:30 am – 3:30 pm
• LOCATION: OSBN Office on 17938 SW Upper Boones Ferry Rd, Portland
• QUESTIONS:     1-800-RED CROSS or redcrossblood.org
• SCHEDULE a donation time

National CRNA Week is the annual celebration of the nearly 74,000 Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists and residents in nurse anesthesiology programs in the United States (1,036 in Oregon). CRNAs, who safely administer more than 58 million anesthetics each year, deliver exceptional care to patients who rely on these innovative leaders to protect them during their most vulnerable moments.

Celebrate the rich history and promising future of these anesthesia experts Jan. 19-25 during National CRNA Week 2025.

Visit our website calendar for more events.

• Jan. 1: Office closed for federal holiday.
• Jan. 7 & 10: OSBN MA curriculum committee.
• Jan. 9: OSBN Deans & Directors Meeting.
• Jan. 15: Public Board Meeting.
• Jan 16: Linfield University School of Nursing presentation on RN Legal Scope and Standards of Practice.
• Jan. 16: Red Cross blood drive at the OSBN office.
• Jan. 20: Office closed for federal holiday.
• Jan 21: Chemeketa Community College presentation on RN/LPN Legal Scope and Standards of Practice.