MA's Scope of Practice

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MA's Scope of Practice...

Medical Assistant's Scope of Practice

Laws concerning the duties and scope of practice of medical assistants vary from state to state. Medical assistants in the United States are required to work under the direct supervision of a licensed healthcare provider such as medical doctor, physician, or registered nurse whenever they provide direct hands-on patient care procedures. Scope of practice means the maximum level of emergency and nonemergency patient care that a medical assistant may provide while on duty.

It must be clearly understood that medical assistants MUST always stay within their scope of practice regardless of their level of training. They must practice ONLY methods and procedures that are commonly accepted in their profession and in which they were properly trained and supervised. Medical assistants who disregard established professional standards and attempt to perform procedures or tasks beyond their training, capabilities, or scope of practice are in danger of exposing themselves, patients and supervisors to serious consequences and liability issues.

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Regulating Bodies of Medical Assistants

The Medical Practice Act and the Board of Medical Examiners govern the practice of medicine to protect the health, safety and well being of citizens! These boards have ruled that physicians are accountable for the actions of medical assistants under their employ. Therefore a good place to start asking questions regarding the medical assistant's scope of practice is the State Board of Medical Examiners.

State Rules

Some states require that medical assistants who draw blood for lab tests are certified and have passed a practical examination. Some medical assistants may need a special license from their state to expose patients to X-rays. Other states may mandate special training before their medical assistants can administer certain types of needle injections, or tests such as allergy testing, or PPD/Mantoux skin tests.

Certification Bodies

Certified medical assistants may also receive guidance regarding their scope of practice from their professional association or certifying body's local chapter. Here are some medical assistant scope of practice links sorted by state.

References

Retrieved from "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medical_Assistant_%28MA%29"

Lindh, Wilburta Q. et al. Delmar’s Comprehensive Medical Assisting: Administrative and Clinical Competencies, 2nd Edition, Delmar, Albany, NY, 2002. ISBN 0-7668-2418-7

Medical Board of California. Medical Assistants - Frequently Asked Questions. Retrieved November 8, 2006.

U.S. Department of Labor. Occupational Outlook Handbook - Medical Assistants. Retrieved November 8, 2006.

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