Sample NP Collaborative Practice Agreement: Everything You Need to Know
A Collaborative Practice Agreement (CPA) is a document that sets forth the terms of a partnership between an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) and one or more Physician(s) or Physician Assistant(s) that allows for them to work together in providing patient care. The CPA outlines the scope of practice, responsibilities, and communication between the parties involved. In this article, we will discuss the importance of a collaborative practice agreement and provide a sample NP collaborative practice agreement for your reference.
Why is a Collaborative Practice Agreement Important?
CPAs are important because they help to ensure that the care provided by APRNs meets high standards of quality. As an APRN, it is essential to work in partnership with physicians, as they provide important insight and expertise that can improve patient outcomes. The CPA sets forth the guidelines for the collaboration and communication between the APRN and the Physician(s), ensuring that all parties are aware of their respective roles and responsibilities.
What is included in a Collaborative Practice Agreement?
A CPA should contain, at a minimum, the following information:
1. Identifying Information: The names, addresses, and contact information of the APRN and the collaborating physician(s) should be included.
2. Scope of Practice: The scope of practice should be clearly defined for both the APRN and the collaborating physician(s). This section should include the types of patients the APRN will treat and the medical conditions they will manage.
3. Responsibilities: This section should outline the specific responsibilities of both the APRN and the collaborating physician(s). The APRN`s responsibilities should include patient assessments, treatment plans, medication management, and patient education. The collaborating physician(s) should be responsible for consultation, referral, and supervision.
4. Communication: This section should outline how communication will take place between the APRN and the collaborating physician(s). The frequency and method of communication should be specified.
5. Termination: This section should outline the circumstances under which the CPA may be terminated by either party.
Sample NP Collaborative Practice Agreement
Below is a sample CPA for an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse collaborating with one or more Physicians:
Collaborative Practice Agreement
This Collaborative Practice Agreement (CPA) is made and entered into on ________________, by and between [Practice Name], hereafter referred to as “Practice,” and [APRN Name], hereafter referred to as “APRN,” and [Physician Name(s)], hereafter referred to as “Physician(s).”
Purpose
This CPA is entered into for the purpose of allowing the APRN and Physicians to work collaboratively in providing healthcare services to patients. This CPA shall govern the relationship between the parties in the provision of healthcare services.
Scope of Practice
The APRN shall provide healthcare services within their scope of practice, as defined by [State Board of Nursing]. The collaborating Physician(s) shall provide consultation, referral, and supervision as necessary.
Responsibilities
The APRN shall be responsible for:
– Performing patient assessments
– Developing and implementing treatment plans
– Prescribing medications
– Providing patient education
– Managing patients with acute and chronic medical conditions
The Collaborating Physician(s) shall be responsible for:
– Providing consultation and collaboration with the APRN as needed
– Referring patients to other healthcare providers as needed
– Supervising the APRN`s practice, as required by state law
Communication
The APRN and Collaborating Physician(s) shall communicate on a regular basis to ensure that patients receive appropriate care. Communication may take place through telemedicine, phone, email, or in-person meetings, as deemed appropriate by the parties.
Termination
This CPA may be terminated by either party upon written notice to the other party. Termination shall become effective thirty (30) days after the date of the notice.
Conclusion
A collaborative practice agreement is a critical document that defines the partnership between an APRN and their collaborating physician(s). By establishing clear guidelines for responsibilities, communication, and termination, the CPA can help to ensure high-quality healthcare services are provided to patients. Use the sample NP collaborative practice agreement provided above as a starting point for drafting your own CPA. Remember to consult with legal counsel and adhere to state practice requirements when creating your agreement.
