• TS: –  CMS: Evolving Requirements for Nonphysician Practitioners[®] [REF: CMS, GB, LDR, MD] The Source, February 2013, Vol 11, #3, Pg 8

Under new CoPs (CMS-3244-F) that became effective in September of last year, CMS expanded the scope of professionals that could be members of the medical staff.  Subject to state law, your governing body and medical staff approval, this could include advanced practice nurse practitioners, physician assistants, pharmacists, dentists,  podiatrists, psychologists and others.  The ability (with appropriate privileges) of these providers to initiate standing orders and protocols is seen as an advantage and resource for maintaining timeliness and quality of care, especially when physicians are unavailable.
Tip5:  If you are considering the addition of non-physicians to the medical staff, be sure to check its permissibility with state law, obtain formal medical staff approval and amend the bylaws accordingly.
Tip6:  See also: TS: CMS: Complying with Rules for Standing Orders [REF: MDx, P&T, Phrm, RNx]