Optimizing the Role of APPs in NM Practice-Maggie Naclerio Presentation

Maggie Naclerio Presentation

Pdf Summary

The document outlines the role and utilization of Advanced Practice Providers (APPs), specifically Nurse Practitioners (NP) and Physician Assistants (PA), in the field of neuromuscular medicine and their integration into the shared-practice model. Maggie Naclerio from Brigham and Women’s Hospital provides this framework, emphasizing the importance of understanding the scope of practice for APPs.<br /><br />APPs, which include PAs and NPs, have distinct educational pathways and regulatory requirements. PAs, for instance, typically undergo a 27-month Master’s degree program which prepares them to practice in any specialty after certification. NPs, on the other hand, have programs ranging from a Master’s to Doctorate, and train in specific areas like Family Medicine or Pediatrics. Both professions require continuous education and recertification.<br /><br />The scope of practice for APPs varies widely by state, with differing levels of independence, collaboration, and supervision. NPs may work in states with full, reduced, or restricted practice rights, while PAs have significant work flexibility defined by state laws and practice level needs.<br /><br />Billing models for APPs include the "Incident-To" model, which allows full Medicare reimbursement when APPs perform follow-up care originally initiated by a physician. Split/shared and independent billing models offer additional ways APPs and physicians can share in patient care and financial reimbursements, though these vary by practice setting and state.<br /><br />Organizations like the American Academy of Neurology (AAN) and the American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (AAPM&R) emphasize integrating APPs into healthcare teams to enhance patient care quality, address physician shortages, and increase efficient care access. However, challenges such as onboarding costs, retention, and regulatory variances exist.<br /><br />Testimonials from practicing APPs highlight the diverse roles and responsibilities they hold in neuromuscular clinics, underscoring their integral role in the modern healthcare landscape. The document concludes by anticipating future surveys to better understand and support APP roles in these settings.

Keywords

Advanced Practice Providers

Nurse Practitioners

Physician Assistants

neuromuscular medicine

shared-practice model

scope of practice

billing models

healthcare integration

regulatory requirements

patient care