As the healthcare industry continues to expand and evolve, so do the roles and responsibilities of healthcare professionals. One such profession that has experienced significant growth in recent years is that of the physician assistant (PA). PAs are trained healthcare providers who work under the supervision of physicians to provide medical care to patients. In California, PAs are regulated by the Medical Board of California and are required to have a delegation of services agreement in place with their supervising physician.

A delegation of services agreement (DSA) is a legal document that outlines the scope of practice for a PA and the responsibilities of their supervising physician. In California, the DSA must be in writing and must be reviewed and updated annually. The agreement must also be signed by both the PA and their supervising physician.

The DSA is an important document for both the PA and the supervising physician. It establishes the parameters within which the PA can practice and ensures that the supervising physician is aware of and comfortable with the PA`s scope of practice. The DSA also ensures that the PA is practicing within the bounds of their training and capabilities.

In California, the DSA must include specific provisions, such as a description of the medical services the PA is authorized to provide, the qualifications of the PA and the supervising physician, and the method by which the supervising physician will review the PA`s medical records. The DSA must also include information about how the PA will be supervised, including the amount and type of supervision required and the frequency of supervision.

It is important for PAs and their supervising physicians to have a clear understanding of the DSA and to ensure that it is updated and reviewed regularly. Failure to comply with DSA requirements can result in disciplinary action by the Medical Board of California, including fines, suspension or revocation of licensure.

In conclusion, the delegation of services agreement is an essential document for physician assistants and their supervising physicians in California. It ensures that PAs are practicing within their scope of practice and that supervising physicians are aware of and comfortable with the medical care being provided. Compliance with DSA requirements is critical to maintaining a successful and ethical healthcare practice.