Nurse practitioners (NPs), physician assistants (PAs), registered nurses (RNs), and licensed practical nurses (LPNs) generally need to collaborate with a physician when opening a medspa, aesthetics practice, or medical weight management clinic.
The specific requirements vary by state, especially with some nurse practitioners enjoying unrestricted prescribing authority in some states, so it’s crucial to check your local regulations.
Before embarking on your search for a collaborating physician, it’s crucial to review your state’s policies. The American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) provides an easy-to-use map tool for detailed information on specific regions. Some NPs may need a collaborator primarily for clinical support, while others might require one solely for regulatory compliance.
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Post job listings on platforms such as:
Avoid spamming multiple job boards, as this may lead to an overwhelming number of unqualified candidates.
Use Google to find primary care, pain management, alternative medicine, and psychiatric offices in your area. Prepare a brief script introducing yourself and explaining your need for a collaborating physician.
Consider using services like Doctors for Providers, Physician Collaborators, Moxie or Collaborating Docs, which specialize in connecting NPs and PAs with collaborating physicians.
When evaluating potential collaborators, consider the following:
Based on these factors, compensation can range from $500 to $2000+ per month. Some arrangements might involve hourly rates ($100-$150 per hour) or a percentage of practice revenue (typically 5-15%). Flat annual fees can range from $5,000 to $15,000 or more, depending on the level of involvement and risk.
Wherever possible, try to negotiate a flat rate. While it may be more money for you at the start of your practice, you’ll keep more money in your pocket as you grow.
Remember to factor in additional costs such as malpractice insurance and any required travel expenses. Always consult with a healthcare attorney to ensure your arrangement complies with state laws and doesn’t violate anti-kickback statutes.
Finding the right collaborating physician is a crucial step in establishing and running a successful medspa, aesthetics practice, or medical weight management clinic.
By carefully considering the factors outlined in this guide—from understanding state regulations to negotiating fair compensation—you can create a mutually beneficial partnership that meets legal requirements and enhances the quality of care you provide.
Remember that the ideal collaborating physician should do more than just fulfill regulatory obligations.
They should be a valuable resource, offering expertise, guidance, and support that contributes to the growth and success of your practice.
Take the time to thoroughly vet potential candidates, ensuring their experience aligns with your practice’s needs and that their working style complements your own.
As you move forward, keep in mind that the healthcare landscape is constantly evolving.
Stay informed about changes in regulations, best practices, and industry trends. Regularly review and update your collaboration agreement to ensure it remains compliant and continues to serve the best interests of your practice and patients.
Ultimately, the right collaborating physician can be a key asset in elevating the standard of care you provide, managing risk effectively, and helping your practice thrive in a competitive market.
By investing time and effort in this crucial relationship, you’re setting a strong foundation for the long-term success and sustainability of your medspa, aesthetics practice, or medical weight management clinic.
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