- What does this mean: Previously your scope of practice was defined by only your supervising physician’s scope of practice. Now your scope of practice can also be supported by others in the group setting, if mutually agreed upon. Example: My supervising physician doesn’t place IUDs, but I have this knowledge/skill and would like to be able to do this procedure. Placing an IUD falls into the “usual scope of practice” in the area in which I practice, such as family medicine or OB/GYN. I obtained this skill either through a training program, previous work experience or with a different physician within the same group. I am able to demonstrate competency of this procedure in a way that is mutually agreed upon. I can, therefore, provide this service to patients. The scope of practice agreement should specify which physician will be supporting the additional services, and the supporting physician should be a party to the collaborative agreement.
- What does this mean: The removal of this statute applies more to the institution interpreting the language, i.e. hospitals, diagnostic centers, and perhaps pharmacies. When ordering a diagnostic test or lab PAs had previously been required to sign both their name and also put the MDs name on the chart, with or without the language “as an agent of”, depending on the facility acting upon those orders. The removal of this language allows the institution to more clearly interpret orders, prescription and other documentation of services performed by the PA.
- What does this mean: PAs employed by a hospital no longer have to have a supervising agreement with one specific doctor. It was realized PAs employed by hospitals often work with multiple providers in teams, not just one specific doctor. Hospitals have their own by-laws that can address how a PA will be used in their institution.
- Specific time together requirements for PAs with less than 2 years of experience and their supervising doctor were removed, as well as specific percentage of chart review requirements. Implementation of a new PA to a practice will be determined at the practice setting.
- What does this mean: Specific time together requirements for PAs with less than 2 years of experience and their supervising doctor were removed, as well as specific percentage of chart review requirements. Implementation of a new PA to a practice will be determined at the practice setting.
- Removing this requirement allows for emphasis to be placed on the professional relationship among the PA and MD and advocates for an environment that supports team-based care.
- Limitations may still exist related to reimbursement subject to CMS guidelines.
- This portion of the bill was introduced by Senator Hilkemann (a podiatrist) separate from the 407 process NAPA had been working on for over 18 months. We are open to communication with the state podiatry association on this matter and we are confident PAs will continue to use their skills to provide high quality health care to Nebraskans.
We are excited for this update to PA practice to prevent unnecessary administrative burden. Most importantly, we are excited for PAs in the state of Nebraska to be able to serve their patients and communities more effectively.
Sincerely,
Nebraska Academy of Physician Assistant Board of Directors
Recent Posts
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- PA Practice Statute Changes Become Effective November 14
