In Arkansas, a collaborative practice agreement is typically between an APN and whom?

In Arkansas, a collaborative practice agreement is indeed typically established between an Advanced Practice Nurse (APN) and a physician. This agreement outlines the scope of practice and responsibilities that the APN will adhere to in their practice, allowing them to perform certain functions like prescribing medications and providing care under the supervision and collaboration of a physician.

The importance of this relationship lies in the fact that it enables APNs to deliver healthcare services more autonomously while still ensuring a safety net is in place through collaboration with physicians. This partnership is essential in many healthcare settings to enhance patient care and optimize healthcare delivery.

On the other hand, while nurses, pharmacists, and patients play significant roles in the healthcare system, they do not typically enter into collaborative practice agreements in the same regulatory manner as APNs and physicians do. The regulatory framework in Arkansas specifically addresses the relationship between APNs and physicians in the context of sophisticated healthcare needs and advanced practice.