The short answer
Every resident has an attending physician, who may be assisted by a nurse practitioner or physician assistant. Federal rules require a physician visit at least every 30 days for the first 90 days after admission and at least every 60 days after that, with some visits allowed to alternate with an NP or PA. Separately, each facility has a medical director who oversees medical care policies.
Attending physician
- Writes the orders for medications, diet and treatment
- Reviews the resident's overall plan of care
- Must be notified of significant changes in condition
- Residents have the right to choose their attending physician, subject to the facility's credentialing requirements.
How often visits happen
- Every 30 days for the first 90 days after admission
- At least every 60 days after that
- After the initial visit, required visits may alternate between the physician and a nurse practitioner or physician assistant
Many residents are actually seen more often by a nurse practitioner. Ask who the resident's provider is and how to reach them.
Medical director
The medical director is a physician responsible for implementing resident care policies and coordinating medical care in the facility. The medical director is not usually each resident's personal doctor, but is a person to involve when medical care problems are systemic.
Tips
- Ask for the attending's name and the best way to schedule a call.
- Ask to be called before any new psychotropic medication is started.
- Ask that the physician attend, or give input to, the care plan meeting.
The rules behind this
- 42 C.F.R. § 483.30 (physician services)
- 42 C.F.R. § 483.70(h) (medical director)
- 42 C.F.R. § 483.10(d) (choice of attending physician)
Related questions
This guide provides general information, not medical or legal advice. Rules change; confirm current requirements with the facility, the New York State Department of Health or a professional. Attorney Advertising.