Michigan Nursing Home Administrator (NHA) Practice Exam

What is one responsibility of the attending physician under Medicaid regulations?

1. Conduct visits every 90 days

2. Provide a written plan of care

3. Administer medications directly

4. Limit visits to only emergency needs

The correct answer is: Provide a written plan of care

The attending physician has a critical responsibility to establish and provide a written plan of care under Medicaid regulations. This plan serves as a comprehensive outline of the treatment strategies, goals, and services required for a resident's care, ensuring that it aligns with their medical needs and personal preferences. The written plan of care is vital for communication among healthcare providers and helps coordinate services effectively. Moreover, the clarity and structure provided by a written plan contribute to ensuring that all staff involved in the resident's care adhere to the prescribed treatments and interventions. It is also necessary for compliance with regulatory requirements, as regulatory agencies require documentation that outlines the approach to individual resident care. Other options present responsibilities that do not fully capture the comprehensive role of the attending physician. For example, while frequent visits can be beneficial, they are not mandated at specific intervals like every 90 days; rather, the frequency depends on the resident's condition and needs. Administering medications directly is typically the role of nursing staff or other trained personnel, not the attending physician. Lastly, limiting visits only to emergencies undermines the proactive management of care that the attending physician is expected to provide, which includes regular assessments and adjustments to the plan of care.