The specific contents and implicated parties of such agreements vary by state, discipline, and, in some cases, facility.
This article was first published June 30, 2021, by HCPro's Credentialing Resource Center, a sibling publication to HealthLeaders.
The Alabama Board of Medical Examiners & Medical Licensure Commission will now allow physicians to hold collaborative/supervisory practice agreements with up to nine advanced practice professionals (APP).
Previously, physicians were limited to four full time equivalents (FTE) of these practitioners (e.g., certified nurse midwives, certified registered nurse assistants, and physician assistants).
“This is a positive joint effort that recognizes patients’ interests are best served when they are treated by a physician-led team of health professionals. It will help ensure patients in Alabama receive safe, quality care,” said Alabama Board of Medical Examiners Chairman Mark H. LeQuire, MD.
In states where APPs must practice under a physician’s tutelage, a collaborative or supervisory agreement may be required to delineate the nature of this relationship.
The specific contents and implicated parties of such agreements vary by state, discipline, and, in some cases, facility.
Despite these variations, a collaborative/supervisory agreement typically outlines the reporting structure, accountability, and division of labor between the physician and the APP; states what the APP does and does not have the authority to do; and spells out the physician’s oversight responsibilities and availability for consultation.
Before submitting a new collaborative practice agreement for approval by the state licensing board, physicians will have to disclose all existing collaboration agreements in all states.
A physician with more than four FTE APPs will also be required to conduct monthly quality assurance reviews for the first six months of a new collaboration agreement.
Starting January 1, 2024, collaborating physicians will be required every four years to complete the Board of Medical Examiner’s continuing medical education regarding the rules and statutes governing collaborative practice in Alabama.
The Credentialing Resource Center (CRC) is the premier destination for credentialing, privileging, and peer review expertise. Membership provides MSPs, quality professionals, and medical staff leaders with a collection of continuously updated tools, best practice strategies, and compliance tips developed by industry experts. With three membership tiers, you can customize your access level depending on your education and training needs. Learn more.