The Impact of Independent Chemotherapy Prescribing by Advanced Practice Providers on Patient Safety and Clinician Satisfaction

Background: Literature on advanced practice providers (APPs) prescribing chemotherapy independently, without physician cosignature, is limited.

Objectives: This project assessed safety and provider satisfaction for an existing independent APP chemotherapy prescribing privilege at a National Cancer Institute–designated comprehensive cancer center.

Methods: Rate of Reporting to Improve Safety and Quality events associated with APPs with independent chemotherapy prescribing privileges was compared to that of physicians during a three-year period. Satisfaction of APPs with independent chemotherapy prescribing privileges was evaluated.

Findings: The odds of a reported event were higher for physicians than for APPs. APP survey responses were positive for readiness, confidence, and satisfaction with independent chemotherapy prescribing privilege.