Due to the changing primary care ecosystem, increasingly Nurse Practitioners (NPs) choose to work in independent practice (as independent contractors). NPs in independent practice are self-employed and may work as an individual, in partnership with other self-employed healthcare professionals, or as an employer of other healthcare providers. It is the independent practice NP’s responsibility to address any professional, business, liability, and risk management issues that may arise from their practice.
As you get started, there are two key resources to reference for the latest information on self-employed practice for NPs:
- BC College for Nurses and Midwives Self-Employed Practice outlines what self-employed nurse is and what to consider if you are thinking about self-employed nursing practice. Check the page for the latest information on Self-Employed Practice.
- CNPS Nurses in Independent Practice: An Overview outlines key considerations for nurses in independent practice including understanding your legal accountability in determining services you provide, determining business structure, responsibilities in establishing process for informed consent and as the health information custodian and considerations when setting up contracts, professional liability protection and business insurance.
The following sections are focused more on helping those who plan open a practice and act as employers, either in partnership with others or as a sole clinic owner.