NP learning OMM?

linearthinker, DNP, RN · Mar 17, 2011

I don't know, but I do know that there is a group of DOs that were advertising for a FNP to join their practice and they were going to teach the OMM aspect so that the FNP could apply for certification in it. So, FWIW, it exists and isn't hugely uncommon.

Trauma Columnist · Mar 17, 2011

Just gotta ask. What is OMM?

thenewguy8 · Mar 17, 2011

Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine, a hands-on technique-set that works in ways similar to chiropractors and cranial-sacral therapists. And more.

elkpark · Mar 17, 2011

Before pursuing anything like that, I would verify directly with my state BON that it would be within the scope of my practice and legally acceptable in my state. There are practice differences among states ...

thenewguy8 · Mar 17, 2011

Well I don't have a state yet - I haven't even applied for programs yet.

I'm looking to find out where an NP might go to get this training and then, as you said, where is it practice-able.

Ranier · Mar 18, 2011

Actually, CPT and CMS/Medicare do not currently limit the use of the OMT CPT codes to DO's only- any billing provider (MD, DO, PA, NP) can use it if within the scope of their practice. Except DC's, who have to use chiropractic codes. I have no idea how a non-DO demonstrates that OMT is within their scope though. I know there are lots of continuing medical education conferences (20-40 hour courses, weekend seminars, those kind of things), even one offered through Harvard, teaching OMT techniques to MD's (not sure if mid-levels are invited) but other than a certificate of completion of that course I'm not sure any kind of formal, state "certification" or licensure exists to demonstrate OMT competency for the non-DO provider. My source is just being the wife of a DO, so I can't pretend to be any kind of expert though, sorry.

thenewguy8 · Aug 7, 2011

Still curious about this if anyone has any more information.

Basically - is there an official certification process to be able to bill legally for OMM? Or can I just study with an osteopathic doctor and practice when I feel competant with the adjustments? Then, if there were ever a problem, site might training as the source of my legitimacy?

I guess there's also a broader question here: as a licensed NP is there any problem 'prescribing' herbs or exercise or diets, etc. if I feel that is the best course of action?

thanks!

Advanced Practice Columnist / Guide · Aug 7, 2011

First off, there are no official certifications required for every procedure performed in healthcare. In general, procedures are performed as part of a specialty (Anesthesia does intubations, Critical Care does central lines, Interventional Cardiology does heart cath's, Pulmonary Medicine does bronch's, and so on). With that said, there is still quite a bit of overlap between specialties in terms of who really should be performing specific procedures. If there are CPT codes for OMM, then it makes sense that if you belong to a practice where OMM is provided, you should be fine as long as the practice trains you on it. CPT codes are numbers that are used to designate a procedure that is billable. A Lumbar puncture, for instance, has a CPT code. It would not be uncommon for NP's and PA's working in specialties such as Neurology or Neurosurgery, for instance, to actually perform lumbar punctures when trained appropriately in how it's done. In the same manner, it wouldn't be questionable for a DO practice to train all their non-DO providers in OMM if that's part of the services they offer. You wouldn't necessarily need a formal class on them if the practice feels that they are able to train you well on the job.

thenewguy8 · Aug 7, 2011

Thanks for the response!

Quick follow up:

If out of school I were to practice with a DO who taught me OMM - would it be ethical for me to then offer it as part of my own independent practice were I to open one?

Editorial Team / Admin · Aug 7, 2011

Thanks for the response!
Quick follow up:
If out of school I were to practice with a DO who taught me OMM - would it be ethical for me to then offer it as part of my own independent practice were I to open one?

Ethics wouldn't have any bearing.

It would be up to your NPA, SOP. You would just have to run all this by your BON.

thenewguy8 · Aug 7, 2011

NPA, SOP?

I'm not practicing yet - I'm applying to DE programs this fall, but I know that I would like to integrate OMM into my practice so I'm just trying to find out what hte options are. Sounds like its state-based?