Top Rated Collaborating Physician Services
For nurse practitioners looking to practice independently who are in states that require a physician collaborator or supervisory physician, finding a 'good match' is top priority. For reference, you can find the AANP's listing of your state practice environment here.
While many NPs have physicians who they have previously worked with who are happy to partner as a collaborating physician, other NPs may need to find a collaborating physician for their practice. And finding a physician who aligns with your clinical practice, practice budget, and working style is critical.
We've summarized the leading services that help with collaborating physician 'match-making' below. Also, it is worth noting that the most cost effective option for many NPs is setting up a collaborative arrangement with a MD friend or co-worker. That said, match making services provide efficient matches even on tight timelines.
Note: This guide is based on publicly available information and feedback shared by Nurse Practitioners with Prax Health. It is intended for informational purposes only and not to endorse or criticize any specific service.
What to Expect from a Collaborating Physician Service
- Guaranteed Match and Rematch Policies:
- Most services guarantee finding an initial match within 14 days.
- Free re-matches are typically offered if the physician retires, takes leave, or the partnership doesn't work out, to ensure no gaps in MD coverage.
- State-Specific Requirements:
- Physician supervision requirements vary across states. Some states may require chart reviews or co-signatures. It is important to know your state specific requirements.
- Because in some states an NP or PA "takes up a supervisory spot" for an MD, most companies do not offer part-time discounts for NPs.
- Notable Companies:
- Collaborating Docs and Zivian stood out for their competitive pricing, organization, and responsiveness.
In-Depth Comparisons of Collaborating Physician Services
Note: Updated as of December 2024. Based on in depth feedback from our NP Community.
Collaborating Docs
- Initiation Fee: $500 (one-time)
- Monthly Fee Range: $780-$1,080, depending on specialty and telehealth vs. in-person services.
- Commitment: Month-to-month with no cancellation fees.
- Key Benefits:
- MDs review 10% of charts independently
- Monthly MD meetings for clinical discussions
- Direct communication with MDs (no portal required)
- Drafting state-compliant collaborative agreement
- MD malpractice insurance fully covered
- Weekly office hours for ongoing support
Zivian
- Initiation Fee: None
- Monthly Fee Range: Around $750, with flexibility for in-person appointments
- Commitment: Month-to-month
- Key Benefits:
- Facilitates collaborative agreement signing
- Offers a compliance document portal
- MD malpractice insurance provided, with optional addition to your policy at no cost if fees arise
- Zoom meetings to ensure a good fit between NP and MD
Doctors for Providers
- Initiation Fee: None
- Monthly Fee Range: $1,225-$1,425, depending on hours worked.
- Commitment: Month-to-month with 90-day written notice for cancellations
- Key Considerations:
- MD malpractice insurance not covered
Wellness MD Group
- Initiation Fee: None
- Monthly Fee: Around $1,200 (including Schedule II prescriptions)
- Commitment: Not clearly defined
- Concerns:
- Lack of clarity about specialty areas
Other Groups
- Physician Collaborators: Limited availability in some states
- Ur Doc: Did not show up for scheduled sales meeting and difficult to use website
Choosing the Right Partner
When selecting a collaborating physician matching service, consider:
- Pricing and transparency
- Responsiveness and professionalism
- Ongoing support and re-matching services
- Clear communication channels and availability
- Important protections, such as malpractice and standardized procedures
Collaborating Docs and Zivian emerged as strong contenders for their organized processes and competitive rates. However, whichever service you choose, ensure it aligns with your professional needs, state requirements, and practice budget.
Disclaimer:
The information and/or resources provided in this post and elsewhere on the Prax Health site is provided for general informational purposes only and to assist you as you evaluate engaging in Prax Health's services. It is not intended as, and Prax Health, Inc. does not provide, medical advice, diagnosis or treatment nor is it intended to be legal or tax advice.
Sources
- Prax Health Research & Editorial Team
- Nurse Practitioner Community
- AANP