The Use of Mid-Level Providers in Dermatology: A Liability Risk?

Abstract

The use of mid-level providers, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants is growing in the practice of dermatology, fueled by a perceived shortage of dermatologists and the promise of practice enhancement. Exactly how the physician extender is used in the dermatology practice can either increase or decrease the risk of malpractice liability and ultimately may be a factor in whether the dermatologist prevails in a malpractice case. Although dermatologists can delegate care to physician extenders, they cannot delegate the liability risk. It is up to the dermatologist to embrace those principles and practices that enhance patient care, decrease medical errors, and improve physician/practice patient relationships to ultimately decrease the risk of malpractice liability.