Quebec nurses get new powers to prescribe meds, lab tests

The Quebec government is giving nurses more powers in an effortto speed up treatment for patients.

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Quebec nurses' responsibilities will be expandedto include prescribing contraceptives, starting in January 2016.

Nurses will also be able to order lab tests, prescribe some medicationsand treat people with wounds and sexually transmitted infections.

The announcement was made Wednesday by Quebec Health Minister Gatan Barrette, who said Quebecers would benefit from faster and more accessible care.

Thefederation of unions representing Quebec nurses (FIQ) said it's pleased with the new measures.

FIQ's treasurer,Roberto Bomba,said it's a good first step, but he added that nurses could take on even more responsibilities.

"The key to providing improved availability and accessibility of care has to do with an enlargement of the role of health-care professionals, especially nurses," Bombasaid.

Some measures come into effect Oct. 22, while the remainder will begin Jan. 11, 2016.