Psych NP, on call coverage in private practice

[karsonk2]

We are trying to figure out how to add a PMHNP-BC (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-Board Certified) to our network of independent mental health clinicians here in the state of Utah.

A barrier seems to be on call coverage, particularly for out of town vacations. Some people will offer to do this service but will charge $100/hour, 24 hours per day. This translates into a 2 week vacation cost $33,600 just to cover on call coverage, thus creating a financial barrier for someone seeking to do private practice.

I have thought that perhaps a couple of APRNs could collaborate and exchange these services for one another. Does anyone have any experience or any ideas about how this barrier can/could be overcome? Is anyone experiencing the same need/desire and seeking to collaborate to solve this problem?

We have one PMHNP-BC who would like to transition from their status as an employee at a local hospital to private practice, but this particular barrier is something that for obvious reasons makes a difference for this clinician.

[Psychcns]

There can be an emergency number for true emergencies on the the voice mail. If there is a need for med refill, patient can go to their primary care provider. If there is a physician supervisor they may be willing to cover the practice. Usually there are other APRN's or physicians in area who will cover for a trade or a favor. Patients can be encouraged to keep appts so they don't run out of meds. Patients could sign some kind of office policy so they know their responsibilities and the practice could help them make appropriate connection if they run out of meds and for a true emergency they can call 911

[karsonk2]

@ HGreaney: These are great ideas, and I appreciate your willingness to post your advice. Thanks!!

[CRF250Xpert]

I hate to sound greedy, but I don't do anything for free. Currently, my employer owns me, but when I leave this job, I too will expect top dollar to take call. I do favors for folks, but when it comes to patient care - I expect to be reimbursed.