Collaborative Agreement for Nurse Practitioners in Missouri: What You Need to Know

In Missouri, nurse practitioners (NPs) are required to have a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to practice. This agreement outlines the scope of practice, supervision requirements, and protocols for the NP’s clinical practice. But what exactly does this mean for NPs in Missouri? Let’s take a closer look.

Scope of Practice

A collaborative agreement serves to define the scope of practice for the NP. This is important because it sets the boundaries of what the NP is allowed to do without direct oversight from the collaborating physician. In Missouri, NPs are allowed to diagnose and treat patients within their scope of practice, which includes prescribing medications and ordering tests. However, any procedure that requires a high level of technical skill, such as surgery, must be performed under the supervision of a physician.

Supervision Requirements

The level of supervision required in a collaborative agreement can vary based on the level of experience and training of the NP. For example, a new graduate NP may require more direct supervision than an experienced NP with several years of practice. The agreement should outline the frequency and method of supervision, such as in-person meetings, phone calls, or chart reviews.

Protocols

Protocols are specific guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of certain conditions. In Missouri, the collaborative agreement should include protocols for common conditions that the NP is likely to encounter in their practice. These protocols should be evidence-based and consistent with accepted standards of care.

Benefits of a Collaborative Agreement

One of the benefits of having a collaborative agreement is that it allows NPs to practice to the full extent of their training and education. By collaborating with a physician, NPs can gain valuable feedback and support that can help them improve their clinical skills and provide better care to their patients.

Another benefit is that it can help to expand access to care, particularly in rural areas of Missouri where there may be a shortage of primary care physicians. By allowing NPs to practice to the full extent of their training and education, they can help to fill the gap and provide much-needed care to patients who might otherwise go without.

In conclusion, a collaborative agreement is an essential component of NP practice in Missouri. By clearly defining the scope of practice, supervision requirements, and protocols, NPs can provide high-quality care to their patients while working collaboratively with physicians to improve their clinical skills and expand access to care. So, NPs in Missouri should ensure that they have a collaborative agreement in place to practice safely and efficiently.