This guide breaks down New York naming requirements to name your practice confidently and avoid common pitfalls.
As a Nurse Practitioner (NP) in New York State, choosing a name for your practice isn't just about branding—it's about compliance. New York has some of the most involved and challenging rules for setting up new professional entities, including choosing the right name for your practice.
Notably, New York State has specific and often confusing rules for naming professional entities. As a licensed clinician setting up a healthcare practice to deliver care in New York state, you must use a PC (Professional Corporation) or PLLC (Professional Limited Liability Company) structure. Unfortunately, submitting a name that doesn't meet New York's strict standards can result in delays of weeks or even months.
Key Rules for How to Name Your Nurse Practitioner (NP) Practice in NY
The New York State Education Department (NYSED) has detailed naming requirements for professional entities (PCs and PLLCs). Here's what you need to know:
1. Avoid Prohibited Terms
- Steer clear of words that are considered 'misleading, fictitious, or promissory':
Misleading terms suggest outcomes or attributes that can't be guaranteed, such as "Cure," "Healing," "Clinic," or "Solution."
Promissory terms are terms that make implied promises about the quality or superiority of your services, like "Best," "Advanced," "Premier," or "Ultimate." For example, "Ultimate Care Psychiatry" could raise flags for suggesting unmatched excellence.
2. Be Clear and Accurate
- Your name must reflect your role and specialty. For nursing practices, include terms like "Registered Professional Nursing" or "Nurse Practitioner" to indicate your professional status clearly.
3. Justify Unusual Names
- If your name includes an unconventional term, such as "Harmony," be prepared to explain its relevance. For example, you might state that "Harmony" symbolizes a balance in care and is central to your practice philosophy.
- Supporting documents, such as a mission and values statement, may be required to back up your explanation. Even then, it's possible that names with descriptors may get denied, and it can take multiple attempts.
Examples of Compliant & Non-Compliant Names for NP Practices
Good Examples for Nurse Practitioners
Jane Doe, Family Health Nurse Practitioner, PLLCThis name is specific, accurate, and complies with NYSED guidelines.
Jane Doe Professional Nursing Services, PLLCA straightforward name that avoids problematic terms.
Names That Could Face Issues
Harmony Psychiatric Solutions, PLLC"Solutions" may be flagged as promissor.
Harmony Comprehensive Psychiatry, PLLCThe term "Comprehensive" could be viewed as misleading or superior
Harmony Psychiatry and Mental Wellness, PLLCMissing a clear reference to "Nurse Practitioner" or "Professional Nursing"
5 Tips for Naming Your Nursing Practice in New York
- Do Your Homework
Search New York's business entity database (link here) to ensure your name isn't already taken or too similar to another.
- Be Specific
Highlight your specialization and credentials in the name. For instance, as a Nurse Practitioner, make sure to reference "Nurse Practitioner" or "Professional Nursing" in the name.
- Plan for Explanations
If your name includes less common or non-neutral terms, prepare a written justification explaining why you chose it and how it aligns with your practice. For example, describe how "Harmony" aligns with the practice's mission to balance mental wellness and psychiatric patient care. There is no guarantee that it will be approved.
- Consult the NYSED Guidelines
Familiarize yourself with the official rules to avoid unnecessary delays.
Additional Resources
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
- McDermott Will & Emery Legal
- New York State Education Department
- New York State Government