The Business of Psychiatric Nursing: Cents and Sensibility Part I: Establishing an Independent Practice

Abstract

This two-part article discusses issues related to establishing and maintaining a successful outpatient private practice. Part one describes elements essential to making an independent nurse-managed outpatient clinic operational; including a mission statement and organizational objectives, organizational structure, daily operations, start-up and ongoing operational costs, personnel requirements, third-party reimbursement issues, public relations, monitoring outcomes, and maintaining one's own mental health. Establishing reimbursement rates for advanced practice nurses and billing for services are described The complex array of managed behavioral health care services are delineated as are issues related to scheduling, taking call, and allowing personal time off.