Where do I find what Residents can and cannot do?

Provided by:  Jennifer Kirschenbaum, Esq.

September 6, 2017

Question:

Hi Jennifer,

Thank you for your always good advice.

I have a really broad questions. If I have to find what residents can or can’t do (i.e. what are they able to order/prescribe, there is a difference if is PGY1 or PGY4, etc.?) where would that be, is the government, the state legislation,….

Thank you in advance.

S.

Answer: 

My understanding is a residents authority is really determined by the supervising program, and experience level - less so much by year.  Overseeing authorities do set basics - see ACGME authority- http://www.acgme.org/Portals/0/PFAssets/ProgramRequirements/CPRs_Section%20VI_with-Background-and-Intent_2017-01.pdf.  Also, a key distinction other than authorization by program, in my mind, is licensure (for the respective state the resident practices in - Board cert and continuing education re: fellowship is relevant as well for expansion of duties...) and when the resident obtains independent prescribing rights.  

Hope this helps. And, I welcome comments from any program directors wishing to offer further guidance!