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WEB EXTRA!

More:

A dozen states consider direct access legislation

AAFP on scope of practice: Physician oversight is vital

The Academy does not have a policy on direct access to physical therapists.

However, the AAFP has addressed the scope of practice for nonphysician providers. In 1992, the Academy approved "Guidelines on the Supervision of Certified Nurse Midwives, Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistants" (see http://www.aafp.org/x6940.xml). That policy, revised in 2002, stipulates, "these providers always function under the direction and responsible supervision of a practicing, licensed physician."

The Academy reiterated that 1992 position when it approved "Integrated Practice Arrangements" in 1996 (http://www.aafp.org/x6888.xml). Revised in 1998, that policy states, "The AAFP encourages health professionals to work together in the best interest of patients. The AAFP believes, however, that interests of patients are best served when their care is provided by a physician or through an integrated practice supervised directly by a physician."

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FP Report is published by the AAFP News Department.
Copyright © 2003 by American Academy of Family Physicians.

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