AAPA

Question 1: The correct answer is anything but C. Let's hope that doctor isn't buried under charts! There is an inverse relationship between the number of charts required for review and the quality of the review. For an issue brief on chart co-signature, click here. For model language on physician oversight of PA practice, click on the model law see the section on Supervision). Members of the SGA (that's State Government Affairs in this case - not the other SGA - we all were over 7 pounds at birth) staff can assist with summary or strategy information if this is still an issue in your state.

Question 2: The best answer is C. While it's important to keep your board updated, it's best if your committee is a separate group with a specific focus. A committee with a diverse background and a member in the capital is ideal. For information on the perfect Government Affairs Committee and a sample letter to use to recruit committee members, click on Taking Charge and read the section on "An Effective Government Affairs Committee" and Appendix A.

Question 3: The best answer is A. Ideally any licensed physician should be able to supervise any licensed PA so long as both agree to the arrangement and this agreement is documented in writing. For a more in-depth description of how this should work, see the Guidelines for State Regulation of Physician Assistants, specifically the section on Supervision, and the model law section on Supervising Physician.

Question 4: Having a representative from your chapter attend every meeting of the regulatory authority is such a good idea. That's why A is the best answer here. Chapters that do this are always ahead of the curve on controversial issues and late breaking news. Don't make the mistake of thinking that PAs who serve as members of the board or the board's PA committee can do this for you. PA appointees are there to protect the public, not advocate for the profession. Send an observer. It's as important as flossing.

Question 5: Whether or not you can utilize the Brain-o-Scope is a decision for you, your supervising physician, and the policies and privileging decisions of any applicable facility, so A is the best answer. Most state laws either embrace this principle or are moving in that direction. For an issue brief on this topic, click here. If this is an issue you'd like to tackle in your state, an SGA staff member can provide information and suggestions.

Question 6: A sustained productive relationship with the state medical society is one of the key predictors of legislative health for a state PA chapter. You need to know Ms. Power in this scenario, so A (you may be sensing a trend here.) is the best answer. Need ideas for improving your in-state network? Our Teambuilding handbook can help. Take a look at suggestions for relationships with other state organizations.

Question 7: PAs practice with physician supervision. But what is the PA to do when no supervision is available? State laws should authorize PAs to provide aid in emergencies and disasters and should extend them Good Samaritan immunity; A is the best answer here. The AAPA model law includes language that does the trick.

Question 8: It may be temporarily gratifying to see your "name in lights," but A and B are better answers. Networking is a verb because it requires action. Inviting key members of the health care and legislative community to speak at your conference is just one of the many ways you can increase communication and enhance your relationships. The Academy's Teambuilding book has additional ideas.

Question 9: Of course state chapters must work on legislation that governs the practice of physician-PA teams. But that's only part of your job. Legislation that has a positive impact on patients needs to find its way onto your agenda, too. Find out what the medical society is supporting, work with advocacy groups, keep tabs on bills as they are introduced and offer to lend a hand. A should be the answer for your state chapter.

Question 10: There is a wide array of legal issues that impact PAs that don't find their way into the PA law. C is the best answer here; when an emergency involuntary admission is required, it is an urgent situation. Waiting on a voice order or subjecting a patient to a law enforcement intervention is certainly less optimal. There are a variety of laws outside the PA practice act that impact PA practice and deserve your attention. Click here for a list.