NP vs MD/DO

Editorial Team / Admin · Sep 20, 2005

What are the limitations on NPs in the practice of medicine and surgery compared to MD/DO in the same clinical setting? For example, in a hospital ER or tertiary primary care setting, what skills/procedures/treatments would an NP be excluded from that an MD/DO could perform? Thank you for your reply.

Hello, Vance,

Just really depends on your state scope of practice.

I suture lacs, intubate, insert chest tubes, minor surgery such as cones, cyst and mole removal. I have even done a pericardiocentesis. Many things too numerous to list here.

I do not do major surgery. NPs cannot do this. And, that is just about the only thing.

suzanne4, RN · Sep 20, 2005

Other than surgery in an OR on their own patients, there is not much that an NP cannot do.

Papadoc · Sep 22, 2005

Hi all!

Hope you don't my jumping in here. But I just wanted to ask some NPs about billing. I realize that the scope of practice for NPs varies from State to State. But are you able to get independently reimbursed for the same procedures/Tx that MDs and D.O.s do if it's in your scope of practice?

Thanks

suzanne4, RN · Sep 22, 2005

Yes they can, but again it depends on the statutes in their states.

Editorial Team / Admin · Sep 22, 2005

Hi all!
Hope you don't my jumping in here. But I just wanted to ask some NPs about billing. I realize that the scope of practice for NPs varies from State to State. But are you able to get independently reimbursed for the same procedures/Tx that MDs and D.O.s do if it's in your scope of practice?
Thanks

Hello, Papadoc,:balloons:

Some insurance companies do not recognize an NP. Most do. Again, it depends upon which state you practice.

Some NPs are only reimbursed 80% of the physician.

Papadoc · Sep 24, 2005

Thanks all very much.

ECMOismygame · Oct 1, 2005

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Editorial Team / Admin · Oct 1, 2005

isnt that normal?
it would be like paying an LVN the same amount of money that an RN is paid.
plus NP's are supposed to be cost effective. correct?

The reimbursement is most unfair.

Your remark lacks logical comparison. The NP care of a patient is almost identical of the care given by the physician (identical care given in identical situations) and in each instance, should have equal third party reimbursement.

I would like clarification of your remark…….

ECMOismygame · Oct 1, 2005

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Editorial Team / Admin · Oct 1, 2005

yes the care......i dont deny that
so NPs/PAs should make the same amount of money as doctors????
geesh wouldnt the docs be kinda upset since they went to school 11 yrs min vs 6 yrs for NP/PA???
wouldnt you be upset if an LVN was paid the same as a RN even though the RN has more schooling and more liability, even though both the LVN and RN may give identical care?

Has nothing to do with salaries. Just with third party reimbursement.

ECMOismygame · Oct 3, 2005

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