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Maine Collaborative Practice Agreement: What You Need to Know

In Maine, a collaborative practice agreement is a collaborative document that outlines the agreement between a licensed physician and a licensed advanced practice registered nurse (APRN). The purpose of the agreement is to ensure that patients receive the highest quality care possible, with the involvement of both the physician and the APRN.

The agreement is required under Maine state law, and it defines the relationship between the physician and the APRN, as well as the scope of practice for the APRN. The agreement also outlines the terms under which the APRN may practice independently, including the types of patients they may treat and the procedures they may perform.

Collaborative practice agreements in Maine are particularly important for APRNs, who are allowed to practice independently only in certain circumstances. Under Maine law, APRNs may practice independently if they hold a master`s degree in nursing and have at least 2 years of clinical experience, and if they have entered into a collaborative practice agreement with a licensed physician.

The collaborative practice agreement must be signed by both the physician and the APRN, and it must be renewed every 2 years. The agreement must also be maintained in the APRN`s practice site and be available for inspection upon request.

In the past, collaborative practice agreements have been criticized by some APRNs who argue that the agreements limit their ability to practice independently and hinder their ability to provide care to patients in rural and underserved areas where physician shortages are common. Supporters of collaborative practice agreements, on the other hand, argue that they are necessary to ensure patient safety and that they provide a framework for collaboration between physicians and APRNs.

In recent years, Maine has made some changes to its collaborative practice agreement requirements. In 2016, the state passed a law that allows APRNs with at least 10 years of experience to practice independently without a collaborative practice agreement. The law also allows APRNs who have completed a doctorate of nursing practice (DNP) degree to practice independently after 2 years of supervised practice.

Overall, collaborative practice agreements in Maine serve an important role in ensuring that patients receive high-quality care from both physicians and APRNs. While they have been the subject of some controversy, collaborative practice agreements are likely to remain an important requirement for APRNs working in Maine for the foreseeable future.