Ask the expert: In my hospital, who should be categorized as an AHP?

That decision is up to your hospital and the state. Some institutions consider dentists, psychologists, and podiatrists to be medical staff members, while others consider them AHPs. Most institutions consider physician assistants and advanced registered nurse practitioners (certified nurse-midwives, certified registered nurse anethetists, clinical nurse specialists, and nurse practitioners) AHPs.

But your hospital's decision about which allied health disciplines it should provide and the privileges it grants to AHPs should be based on state law. This is where it gets tricky, as state regulations regarding AHPs vary widely. For instance, California, Hawaii, and Wisconsin allow psychologists admitting privileges, but Mississippi and Montana call for co-admitting privileges. In addition, a PA who has been authorized to prescribe medications in one state may move to another state that does not permit PAs to prescribe medications. Keeping a keen eye on your state's regulations is key.

For more information about AHPs credentialing and supervision, please see Medical Staff Leaders' Practical Guide by William K. Cors, MD, MMM, FACPE; Mary J. Hoppa, MD, MBA; and Richard A. Sheff, MD.