Georgia Medical Board clarifies position on advanced practice providers

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - The Georgia Composite Medical Board said it is not advising advanced practice providers or physicians to close their practices following the release of a position statement on IV hydration therapy last month.

In a statement dated June 4, the board said it has heard from many APPs and healthcare stakeholders since releasing its IV Hydration/Therapy Position Statement. The board said the purpose of the position statement was not to create new law or policy, but to provide clarity regarding its longstanding interpretation of laws and regulations.

The board also said they are not terminating any currently active protocols as a result of the position statement.

“The Board’s primary concern, as always, is the health and safety of the patients of Georgia,” the statement said.

See June 4 statement below:

Board examines relationship between physicians and APPs

The board said it will closely examine the relationship between physicians and APPs when approving protocol agreements or considering enforcement to ensure independent medical judgment and a truly collaborative relationship.

“We appreciate the public’s patience as we engage in continued discussions with community stakeholders and will pursue collaboration with other regulatory boards, including the Board of Nursing and the Board of Pharmacy, on an interpretation of Georgia law and regulation that ensures the continued health and safety for the citizens of Georgia,” the board concluded in their June 4 statement.

Earlier this week, WTOC spoke with APRNs in rural Georgia who raised concerns about the board’s initial statement.

See initial statement below:

SEE FULL STORY: Georgia board may reinterpret law affecting nurse practitioners who own practices

A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who we spoke with Monday responded to the board’s June 4 statement.

“This has provided no reassurance or clarification. This is continuing to cause confusion amongst APRNs and physicians,” said nurse practitioner Hannah Naude.