Benefits of Being a Collaborating Physician
Have you considered becoming a collaborating a physician? From financial advantages to professional fulfillment, the collaborative model holds the potential to transform your practice in ways you might not have considered.
In many states, advanced practice providers (APPs) such as nurse practitioners (NPs) and physician assistants (PAs) are required to have a collaborating physician who oversees their work. This collaboration between APPs and physicians is known as collaborative healthcare and has many benefits for both parties involved.
In this post, we will explore the benefits of being a collaborating physician for APPs.
What Is a Collaborating Physician?
Collaborative healthcare is a team-based approach to patient care that involves the collaboration of healthcare professionals from different disciplines.
A collaborating physician is an MD or DO who has agreed to “collaborate,” or supervise the clinical work of an NP or PA.
Physicians can serve as a mentor and resource for an advanced practice provider, providing guidance and oversight for their practice. This allows APPs to provide high-quality, comprehensive care to their patients while also having the support and expertise of a physician.
The collaborative model involves ongoing communication, joint decision-making, and supervision as permitted by state regulations. Collaborations support the effectiveness of patient care, allowing for a broader range of services and expertise while maintaining a standard of accountability and ethical oversight.
A few major benefits of collaborative healthcare are outlined below.
Improved Patient Care
By working together, APPs and physicians provide a more comprehensive and coordinated approach to patient care. NPs and PAs are able to use their advanced training and skills to diagnose and treat patients, while physicians can provide guidance and support for more complex cases.
Increased Access To Healthcare
With the growing shortage of primary care physicians, APPs are playing an increasingly important role in providing primary care services. By collaborating with physicians, NPs and PAs are able to expand their scope of practice and provide care to more patients.
Professional Development for APPs
Collaborating with a physician can provide APPs with valuable professional development opportunities. They are able to learn from the experience and expertise of the physician, which helps them to improve their skills and expand their scope of practice.
Increased Efficiency and Productivity
By working together, APPs and collaborating physicians can divide tasks and responsibilities, allowing for a more streamlined approach to patient care. This helps to reduce the workload for both parties, leading to a more manageable and productive work environment.
Benefits of Being a Collaborating Physician
Now that we have explored the benefits of collaborative healthcare, let’s take a closer look at the benefits of being a collaborating physician.
Additional Income
One of the main benefits of being a part-time collaborating physician for APPs is the potential for increased revenue. Being a collaborating physician can be a great option for physicians who are looking to supplement their income while maintaining focus on their primary practice.
As a collaborating physician, you can supervise multiple advanced practice providers and receive a percentage of their billings. This increases your income without requiring you to take on additional patients or work longer hours.
In some scenarios, you can expand your practice to include services that you may not have been able to offer before, such as telemedicine or home visits.
Flexibility
As a part time physician, you have the ability to set your own schedule and work as much or as little as you want. Many collaborating physicians work with APPs on a part-time basis.
This can be especially beneficial for physicians who are looking to reduce their workload or transition into retirement.
Community Impact
Becoming a part-time collaborating physician for NPs can also have a positive impact on your community.
APPs often work in underserved areas where there is a shortage of physicians, and by collaborating with them, you can help bridge this gap and provide much-needed care to those in need. This can also help build relationships with other healthcare providers in your community and strengthen the overall healthcare system.
Mentorship Opportunities
As a collaborating physician, you have the opportunity to share your knowledge and expertise, helping APPs to grow and develop in their careers.
This can be a rewarding experience and can also help to improve patient care as nurse practitioners and physician assistants continue to learn and improve their skills.
Networking and Professional Growth
Collaborating with APPs can also provide networking and professional growth opportunities for physicians. Providers like NPs and PAs bring a unique perspective and skill set to the table, and by working closely with them, you can learn from their expertise.
Collaborations can also lead to a better understanding of APP roles and the potential for future partnerships or job opportunities. You’ll also have an opportunity to stay up-to-date on the latest healthcare trends and practices, enhancing your own skills and knowledge.
In addition, by working with APPs, you have the opportunity to connect with other healthcare professionals and potentially expand your professional network. This can be beneficial for career growth and can also lead to new opportunities in the future.
Conclusion
Collaborative healthcare is a valuable approach to patient care that benefits both APPs and physicians. For physicians, being a collaborating physician offers flexibility, additional income, mentorship and networking opportunities, and expands access to healthcare.
By understanding the benefits and taking the necessary steps to become a collaborating physician, you reap the personal rewards and provide more comprehensive care for patients in your community and beyond.
Become a Collaborating Physician with Zivian Health
Zivian Health provides physicians with secure, compliant and convenient collaboration opportunities that expand their practice and maximize their earning potential.
Contact us here and join our incredible national roster of physicians delivering world-class care today!
