I would like to share an interesting abstract presented at the 2021 ASH annual meeting to study the scope of practice of oncology APPs in prescribing chemotherapy. Researchers shared the results of a survey focused on the privilege of prescribing chemotherapy by APPs in their daily practice. The survey was sent to 1307 APPs with 11% (N=149) respondents from 34 states in oncology practice. 44% of respondents reported being able to independently sign chemotherapy orders, and 56% could not. Among APPs having independent prescribing privileges, only 35% could initiate and sign new chemo orders, while the majority (89%) were limited to signing existing treatment plans. Of those APPs who could not independently prescribe chemotherapy, the majority (77%) reported no restrictions from the state medical board, instead most (69%) reported that their institutions prohibited them from prescribing chemotherapy. If you would like to read detailed information from this study, you can access the abstract at Blood (2021) 138 (Supplement 1): 1897 https://doi.org/10.1182/blood-2021-153924.
This study concluded that the privileges of prescribing chemotherapy were inconsistent for APPs among states and institutions. It is sad to learn that most APPs currently are facing constraints on their ability to prescribe chemotherapy. With the growing demand for cancer care and ongoing shortage of oncologists, APPs have validated our value as members of the oncology care team who provide high-quality care to patients. Prescribing chemotherapy is a common practice for APPs who practice in the oncology specialty. I would love to hear your thoughts and suggestions for how to promote full privileges for APPs to be able to sign chemo orders without restrictions.
Reference
https://ashpublications.org/ashclinicalnews/news/5888/APPs-Are-Limited-in-Prescribing-Chemotherapy-Based?searchresult=1