Optimizing the Role of APPs in NM Practice-Dr. Doughty Presentation

Dr. Doughty Presentation

Pdf Summary

The document outlines a 2024 presentation by Dr. Christopher Doughty on developing an on-the-job training program for Advanced Practice Providers (APPs) entering neuromuscular (NM) practice. The current problem is that the neuromuscular group practice at Brigham and Women's Hospital has lengthy wait times for new patient evaluations due to overloaded schedules of three neuromuscular neurologists. Hiring an APP is proposed to address the issue by allowing MDs to focus on new patients while the APP manages follow-up visits, improving patient throughput.<br /><br />Training barriers include the lack of familiarity supervising MDs may have with the knowledge base of starting APPs. The onboarding and training plan includes designing a structured educational program that would increase the APP's clinical volume and complexity over time, ensuring a robust understanding of various neurologic conditions and procedures.<br /><br />Key steps include:<br /><br />1. <strong>Defining the APP role</strong>, and whether consultations will be independent or shared.<br />   <br />2. <strong>Planning clinical volume ramp-up</strong> to increase independence.<br />   <br />3. <strong>Gradual increase in clinical complexity</strong> with a focus on common patient issues.<br />   <br />4. <strong>A structured educational program</strong> including suggested didactic videos, readings, and weekly discussions.<br /><br />5. <strong>Tracking progress in real time</strong> using chart reviews and competency assessments.<br /><br />The document further emphasizes that thoughtful onboarding can significantly promote retention and reduce turnover costs, which are estimated at $250,000 for an APP.<br /><br />Additional resources and readings are provided for developing onboarding programs tailored for physician assistants (PAs) and nurse practitioners (NPs). Feedback on the session can be given through the AANEM app, which is also used to claim educational credits for the session.

Keywords

on-the-job training

Advanced Practice Providers

neuromuscular practice

Brigham and Women's Hospital

patient throughput

structured educational program

clinical volume ramp-up

onboarding

retention

AANEM app