BUSINESSSome things to consider before hiring nurse practitionerPractice Pointers. By Karen S. Schechter, amednews contributor. Jan. 21, 2002. Question I am an ob-gyn in a busy four-physician practice, and I am trying to decide whether it is time to hire a nurse practitioner. Are there any guidelines regarding when it becomes cost-effective to hire one? And what do I need to be aware of if I bring one into my practice? Answer Physician extenders, such as nurse practitioners, can be an asset to your practice. But as you indicated, you must determine what it will take to turn this additional expense into a profitable venture. The first question to ask is why you think you need a physician extender. Are you finding yourself spending too much time on administrative activities instead of direct patient care? Are you trying to expand your patient base by opening a second site? Are you trying to cut back on your hours? Your answers to these questions may help you determine if you need a physician extender and what type of skill set would meet your needs most effectively. For example, if you are looking for help with administrative tasks, returning phone calls and patient education, a registered nurse may be the answer. But if you want someone to help carry part of your patient load and perhaps expand your patient base, then that might merit consideration of a nurse practitioner. Once you've decided you want a nurse practitioner, you need to determine how you plan to bill for his or her services, review the logistics of having that person in your office or at a separate location and look at the financial impact.
[...]
Full text of American Medical News content is available to AMA members and paid subscribers.
Copyright 2002 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.
|
Feature articlesHealth reform review The Massachusetts experience Litigation stress Being sued is personal as well as professional Comprehensive coverage
Most-viewedNov. 23 issueAMA meeting: Delegate vote refines AMA stance on system reform Liability premiums stay stable, but insurers warn this might not last Columns and series
From the vault: 5 years agoState tort reform ballot wins set stage for further battles Nov. 22, 2004 
|
SHARE
