Page 23 - APP Collaboration - Assessing the Risk (Part One)

SVMIC Advanced Practice Provider Collaboration: Assessing the Risk

Additionally, SVMIC recommends consultation with any

healthcare facilities, hospitals, nursing homes, and insurance
payers that APPs are credentialed with, as many have additional

requirements within bylaws, to remain in compliance with
accreditation agencies or as part of payer contracts.

Definitions and Theories of Liability

The cases we will examine describe a few of

the potential actions of APPs that could impose
liability for the physician as well as the APP.

For example, if a physician allows the APP
to function beyond the scope of licensure or

without adequate supervision, there may be an
allegation of inappropriate collaboration, delegation, or negligent

supervision. There are two primary liability risks for physicians
supervising or collaborating with APPs – disciplinary action by

the licensing board and potential liability for the negligence of
the APP under a theory of negligent supervision.

The key to avoiding disciplinary and legal action is knowing
the responsibilities of both parties to the relationship – those

of supervising and collaborating physicians and APPs. For
physicians, fulfilling the legal responsibilities and documenting

the actions as required should be top priority in the event
your oversight is challenged. State law generally authorizes

disciplinary action against a supervising or collaborating
physician for any inconsistency with responsibilities. Possible

disciplinary actions include suspension of privileges to utilize
an APP and suspension or even revocation of the physician’s

license. The disciplinary sanction of probation alone can have
significant consequences such as exclusion from health insurer

plans.

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