ConnAPA and the Law

PROTOCOL REQUIREMENTS

PAs in Connecticut are required by law to have “written protocols”.

Excerpt from the Connecticut State Statutes, Chapter 370: Section 20-12a:

      <Sec. 20-12d. Medical functions performed by physician assistants. (a) A physician assistant who has complied with the provisions of sections 20-12b and 20-12c may perform medical functions delegated by a supervising physician when: (1) The supervising physician is satisfied as to the ability and competency of the physician assistant; (2) such delegation is consistent with the health and welfare of the patient and in keeping with sound medical practice; and (3) such functions are performed under the oversight, control and direction of the supervising physician. The functions that may be performed under such delegation are those that are within the scope of the supervising physician's license, within the scope of such physician's competence as evidenced by such physician's postgraduate education, training and experience and within the normal scope of such physician's actual practice. Delegated functions shall be implemented in accordance with written protocols established by the supervising physician.>

While protocols do not need to be filed with any State agency, they do need to be kept on file at the practice location(s).  The American Academy of Physician Assistants (AAPA) has published guidance documents on the subject of protocols and practice agreements to assist the physician-PA team with this requirement.


PAs and Protocols Issue Brief

Guidance on Practice Agreements


Medicaid Policy on Agreements for Payment of Services

It is recommended that the protocols/agreement are reviewed and renewed on a yearly basis, with each physician and signing every year as well.  The requirement for protocols applies to all practice settings, including the office, hospital, clinic, nursing facility and ambulatory surgical center.