Is it appropriate for a mid level physician's assistant, nurse practitioner, or ultrasound tech to perform an RFA procedure?

Answers from doctors (4)


Vein Specialties of St. Louis

Published on Aug 23, 2017

You would need to check with your licensing board in your state for the PAs limitations/approved/training etc for these procedures. In some states they are able to do this as long as the physician is in the office/not necessarily the room. I do not believe any state allows ultrasound techs to do these procedures but again, you should check with the licensing board.

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Answered by Vein Specialties of St. Louis

You would need to check with your licensing board in your state for the PAs limitations/approved/training etc for these procedures. In some states they are able to do this as long as the physician is in the office/not necessarily the room. I do not believe any state allows ultrasound techs to do these procedures but again, you should check with the licensing board.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


No, it is not appropriate.

Answered by George N. Cooper Jr., MD, FACS (View Profile)

No, it is not appropriate.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


More About Doctor Laser Vein Center

Published on Aug 22, 2017

Certainly an Ultrasound tech should not perform an RFA. In my opinion, a Physician Assistant and or Nurse Practitioner should not perform this procedure without a physician present. However, there are some states which will allow the later to legally occur.

Answered by Laser Vein Center (View Profile)

Certainly an Ultrasound tech should not perform an RFA. In my opinion, a Physician Assistant and or Nurse Practitioner should not perform this procedure without a physician present. However, there are some states which will allow the later to legally occur.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Published on Aug 22, 2017

Radiofrequency ablation or any other closure procedure is a medical procedure and should be performed by a PHYSICIAN. Under physician guidance an assistant can help with certain parts of the procedure.

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Answered by Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Radiofrequency ablation or any other closure procedure is a medical procedure and should be performed by a PHYSICIAN. Under physician guidance an assistant can help with certain parts of the procedure.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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