When it comes to running a medical practice, one important aspect to consider is collaborating with other healthcare professionals. In the state of Florida, collaborating physician agreements are required for certain healthcare providers, and it`s important to understand the regulations and requirements involved.

A collaborating physician agreement (CPA) is an agreement between a physician and a healthcare practitioner that allows the practitioner to diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication to patients under the supervision of the physician. In Florida, certain healthcare providers are required to have a CPA in place in order to practice.

The healthcare providers that require a CPA in Florida include:

– Advanced registered nurse practitioners (ARNPs)

– Physician assistants (PAs)

– Optometrists (ODs)

– Chiropractors (DCs)

The purpose of the CPA is to ensure that patients receive safe and effective care by limiting the scope of practice for the healthcare practitioner and requiring oversight and collaboration with a licensed physician.

In order to enter into a CPA, the healthcare practitioner and physician must meet certain requirements. The healthcare practitioner must hold an active and unencumbered license in their respective field, and the physician must hold an active and unencumbered license to practice medicine in Florida.

The CPA must also include specific provisions such as:

– The scope of the healthcare practitioner`s practice

– The physician`s responsibilities for oversight and supervision

– The procedures for communication between the healthcare practitioner and physician

– The procedures for handling emergencies and referrals

– The procedures for terminating the agreement

It`s important to note that the healthcare practitioner is still responsible for their own actions and decisions, even when working under a CPA. The physician is responsible for providing oversight and supervision, but ultimately the healthcare practitioner is responsible for their own practice and must adhere to the standards of their profession.

In conclusion, if you are a healthcare practitioner in Florida, it`s important to understand the regulations and requirements surrounding collaborating physician agreements. Practicing without a valid CPA can result in disciplinary action and fines, so it`s crucial to ensure that you are in compliance with the law. By entering into a CPA with a licensed physician, you can provide safe and effective care to your patients while staying within the scope of your practice.