Physician assistant delegation agreement Arizona: An overview
In Arizona, physician assistants (PAs) are regulated by the Arizona Regulatory Board of Physician Assistants (ARBPA). One of the key responsibilities of the ARBPA is to ensure that PAs work within the scope of their practice, which includes operating under a delegation agreement with a supervising physician.
A delegation agreement is a legal document that outlines the relationship between a supervising physician and a PA. It sets out the parameters of the PA`s practice, including the types of medical services they are authorized to provide, the level of supervision required, and the protocols for communication and consultation between the PA and the supervising physician.
Under Arizona law, PAs are authorized to perform a range of medical services, including conducting medical examinations, diagnosing illnesses, ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests, prescribing medication, and performing minor surgical procedures. However, PAs must operate under the supervision of a licensed physician, and their scope of practice is limited to the extent of their training and expertise.
A delegation agreement is essential for ensuring that PAs work within their authorized scope of practice and receive proper supervision. It also protects both the PA and the supervising physician in the event of a malpractice suit or other legal dispute.
In Arizona, delegation agreements must be in writing, and they must be signed by both the supervising physician and the PA. The agreement must also be filed with the ARBPA and kept on file for at least five years.
When drafting a delegation agreement, it is important to ensure that it is specific and comprehensive. The agreement should identify the specific medical services that the PA is authorized to provide, outline the level of supervision required, and establish protocols for communication and consultation between the PA and the supervising physician.
The agreement should also address issues such as record-keeping, liability insurance, and procedures for handling emergency situations. It is also important to periodically review and update the agreement as necessary to ensure that it remains current and reflects any changes in the PA`s training or scope of practice.
In conclusion, a delegation agreement is an essential component of the relationship between a supervising physician and a physician assistant in Arizona. By establishing clear guidelines for the PA`s practice and supervision, the agreement helps to ensure that patients receive high-quality medical care and that both the PA and supervising physician are protected from legal liability.