NP Practice Agreement in Texas: What You Need to Know
If you`re a nurse practitioner in Texas, you may have heard about NP practice agreements and wondered what they`re all about. In brief, an NP practice agreement is a legal document that outlines the working relationship between a nurse practitioner and a physician in a collaborative practice setting. This agreement is required by Texas law, and failure to comply can result in disciplinary action.
Here`s what you need to know about NP practice agreements in Texas:
What is an NP practice agreement?
An NP practice agreement is a written agreement between a nurse practitioner and a physician that describes the working relationship between the two providers. It specifies the scope of practice for the nurse practitioner and outlines the responsibilities of both providers in a collaborative practice setting. The agreement must be signed by both the nurse practitioner and the physician, and it must be maintained on file at the nurse practitioner`s practice location.
Why is an NP practice agreement required?
In Texas, nurse practitioners are required to practice under the supervision of a physician. This means that the physician is responsible for the care provided by the nurse practitioner. The purpose of the NP practice agreement is to ensure that the physician and nurse practitioner are working together effectively to provide high-quality care to patients.
What should be included in an NP practice agreement?
The Texas Board of Nursing has provided guidelines for the contents of an NP practice agreement. The agreement should include the following:
– A description of the responsibilities and scope of practice for the nurse practitioner
– A description of the responsibilities of the collaborating physician
– A plan for communication and consultation between the nurse practitioner and physician
– A plan for the resolution of any disputes that may arise between the nurse practitioner and physician
– A statement outlining the liability insurance coverage carried by both the nurse practitioner and physician
The agreement should be reviewed and updated annually, or as needed.
What are the consequences of failing to comply with NP practice agreement requirements?
If a nurse practitioner fails to comply with the requirements for NP practice agreements, disciplinary action may be taken by the Texas Board of Nursing. This can include fines, restrictions on practice, and even revocation of the nurse practitioner`s license.
In conclusion, nurse practitioners in Texas must have an NP practice agreement in place to comply with state law. This agreement outlines the working relationship between the nurse practitioner and physician and ensures that high-quality care is provided to patients. If you`re a nurse practitioner in Texas, be sure to have an NP practice agreement in place and updated annually.