Rhode Island offers an endless selection of practice settings for you to chose from. From small private PA practices and rural health to a Level 1 Trauma Center and Ivy League teaching hospitals.
Every specialty is represented in RI.
Roles, Rules and Responsibilities
Rhode Island is one of the 4 best states in the country for PA Practice. Our laws and regulations were carefully crafted with PA input and oversight but also in collaboration with many others.
It is your responsibility to know and understand the laws, rules and regulations under which you practice.
You may find the current laws and regulations here.
Rhode Island has switched from a "supervisory" relationship to a "collaborative" relationship with physicians. In addition, the requirement for a Practice Agreement has been removed. Although there is no formal process or requirement to identify who you are collaborating with, it is always a good idea to consult a lawyer and formalize the relationship for your own protection.
Third Party Reimbursement
This is another sticky area that you really need to learn about and be aware as to how your practice is billing for your services.
When you see a patient and a bill to an insurance company is generated (with the exception of certain situations) it will have your name on it and you will be legally responsible for what is on the paper.
This means if you are incorrectly billing (knowingly or unknowingly) you will be held liable. You can be charged with fraud and receive fines, be banned from Medicare for life or jail time.
Contracts
Although the RIAPA does not give legal advice, we strongly advise you to have a clear understanding, in writing, as to what the terms of your employment will be. A lawyer can help guide you through the process. Make sure you cover things like:
How many hours a week?
How many hours of call and how often?
How is call paid?
Transportation compensation for multiple sites?
Terms of vacation, sick and CME time?
How is CME covered?
Do they cover State License, DEA, Prof. Organizations?
Do they cover recertification and exams?
Do they cover your phone bill?
Health, Life and Dental and Disability Insurance?
Retirement Planning, matched contributions?
Pension?
If it's not on paper you have no proof it was agreed to or discussed.
A good lawyer can keep you out of an expensive mess or vanishing benefits that you thought were agreed upon.
