Understanding the Role of a Licensed Health Care Practitioner

Definition & Meaning

A licensed health care practitioner is an individual, other than a physician, who is authorized by the state to provide health care services. This includes various professionals such as registered nurses and licensed social workers. It also encompasses anyone who falsely claims to be licensed or authorized. When a licensed health care practitioner is involved in misconduct, the health care entity may take professional review actions that can negatively impact their clinical privileges. These actions must be reported to the Board of Medical Examiners, detailing the practitioner's name, the nature of the misconduct, and other relevant information.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A licensed nurse administers medication to a patient but fails to follow proper protocols, resulting in an adverse reaction. The health care facility may initiate a review action that could affect the nurse's clinical privileges.

Example 2: A social worker misrepresents their qualifications to clients. The state may take action against the social worker's license, impacting their ability to practice (hypothetical example).

State-by-state differences

Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):

State Licensing Authority Common Professions
California California Board of Registered Nursing Nurses, Social Workers
Texas Texas Board of Nursing Nurses, Therapists
New York New York State Education Department Nurses, Social Workers

This is not a complete list. State laws vary and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you believe you are affected by issues related to licensed health care practitioners, consider the following steps:

  • Gather all relevant documentation regarding the situation.
  • Consult a legal professional for tailored advice.
  • Explore US Legal Forms for templates that can assist you in managing documentation or legal processes.

Quick facts

Attribute Details
Common Professions Nurses, Social Workers, Therapists
Licensing Authority State Boards
Consequences of Misconduct Possible loss of clinical privileges

Key takeaways