What is a Delegation Agreement in the context of Texas Physician Assistants?

In the context of Texas Physician Assistants, a Delegation Agreement is a written document that precisely outlines the tasks and responsibilities that a supervising physician delegates to a Physician Assistant (PA). This is a crucial component of the practice of PAs in Texas, as it specifies the scope of medical services the PA is authorized to perform under the supervision of a physician.

The Delegation Agreement must detail the settings in which the PA can operate, the types of medical procedures they are allowed to perform, and any limitations imposed by the supervising physician. This formalized approach not only ensures clear communication between the PA and the supervising physician but also helps in compliance with state laws and regulations governing medical practice.

The requirement of having a written Delegation Agreement facilitates better collaboration in healthcare settings and establishes accountability for the PA's actions, thereby promoting patient safety and quality of care.