appThe state of Utah has specific regulations in place regarding the delegation of services agreement for physician assistants. This agreement outlines the specific tasks and responsibilities that a physician assistant can perform under the supervision of a physician. It is essential for both the physician and the physician assistant to understand these regulations to ensure that they are operating within the legal framework set by the state.
The Utah Physician Assistant Act was established in 1995 to regulate the practice of physician assistants within the state. Among the key provisions of the act is the requirement for a written delegation of services agreement. This agreement must be in place between the physician assistant and the supervising physician before any duties can be delegated to the assistant.
The delegation of services agreement must outline the specific areas of practice that the physician assistant can perform. These areas may include performing physical exams, ordering and interpreting lab tests, prescribing medication, and providing patient education. The agreement must also specify the level of supervision required for each task, ranging from direct supervision to general supervision.
Both the physician assistant and the supervising physician must sign the delegation of services agreement, and a copy must be kept on file at the primary site where the physician assistant provides services. It is also recommended that a copy be provided to the physician assistant for their personal records.
For the delegation of services agreement to be legally binding, it must meet certain criteria. The agreement must be in writing, signed by both parties, and specify the scope of practice for the physician assistant. It must also state the level of supervision required for each task and contain a provision for regular review and modification as necessary.
In conclusion, the delegation of services agreement is a critical document that outlines the scope of practice and level of supervision for physician assistants in Utah. It is essential for both the physician and the physician assistant to understand the regulations governing these agreements to ensure that they are operating within the legal framework set by the state. By following these regulations, physician assistants can provide valuable services to patients under the supervision of a licensed physician.