Nurse practitioners are licensed to do many of the same procedures as a doctor. Their scope of practice can vary by state. However, they should be doing the procedure under the supervision of a doctor who is trained in the procedure.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

State laws very regarding this issue. You must decide for yourself who you want to see for your vein workup and treatment.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

I believe states have their own regulations. In general, a Physician should be intimately involved with the performance of any surgical or invasive procedure. I think you have all the information you need to make a
decision.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

In my practice the MD is intimately involved in VNUS procedures and performs them with the help of an ultrasound technician and physician assistant.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

A nurse practitioner or Physcian's assistant can be qualified to perform the procedure under a doctor's supervision. Legality I believe depends on the scope of practice and state. But as far as I know, this is possible in all states under the control of an MD. It all depends on experience of the person performing the procedure.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

As far as I know, only physicians should be performing this procedure. Thank you for your question.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Vascular Surgeons have far more extensive training in evaluating and treating patients with venous insufficiency and varicose veins. Most hospitals only allow trained physicians to perform vein procedures and that would be most advisable.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Vascular procedures do encompass risk, as well as benefit, similar to all other procedures. Parallel providers, such as nurse practitioners and physician assistants, do have the legal right to practice medicine under the supervision of a licensed physician. As with all medical decisions you make, be aware of the qualifications of your provider and alternatives that exist. As the patient, you have the ultimate decision as you provide "informed consent" for a procedure and that includes a realistic assessment of the complications in the specific provider's hands, based on level of training and expertise in vascular access and procedures, which are not always straightforward, and certainly not without risk. Also, you should be provided a discussion of alternate therapies. Hope this helps.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Only physicians should be performing this procedure. If a nurse practitioner is doing the procedure, you should go to another provider, clinic or facility.

Published on Jul 11, 2012