Practice
Guide to Innovative Practice Models
This toolkit provides information and resources for psychologists about emerging trends, challenges and opportunities related to alternative practice models.
As the health care arena continues to evolve, the traditional model of solo psychology practice is giving way to innovative practice models that can bring psychologists, physicians or other health care providers together in new ways. While these innovative practice models bring opportunities for both patients and practitioners, they can also bring new risks and require new ways of thinking.
Whether you're interested in creating or joining an innovative practice model or just finding new ways to expand your private practice, this toolkit can help. You'll learn how to avoid legal problems, communicate and collaborate more effectively with physicians and transform your relationship with insurers.
Please note: Legal issues are complex and highly fact specific and laws vary by jurisdiction. APA Practice Organization staff, consultants and speakers cannot provide legal advice. The information provided in this toolkit is an abbreviated compilation of several workshops and does not constitute legal advice. It should not be used as a substitute for obtaining personal legal advice prior to making personal decisions. Those needing legal advice should contact an experienced attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.
The IPM toolkit is an exclusive benefit for members of the Practice Organization.
Innovative Practice Model Toolkit
Risk
Learn what to consider before joining an innovative practice model, ways to ensure a fair contract and how to avoid ethics violations.
Law
Get an overview of the many laws that apply to innovative practice models.
Antitrust
While price-fixing is generally prohibited, the government allows competitors to collaborate if it improves patient care. Learn the three permissible mechanisms for joint collaboration.
Physicians
Use these tips to find physicians willing to refer patients, develop co-located services or even invite you to integrate behavioral health into their primary-care practices.
Medical Practice
Integrating with a Medical Practice
While integration offers benefits to psychologists, physicians and the patients they share, there are important points to consider before you begin.
Payers
Learn how to transform your relationship with third-party payers from confrontation to collaboration focused on improving patients’ health.
Insurers
Understanding What Payers Can Do for You
Insurers are eager to help you help patients improve their health. Learn the surprising ways they can assist you.
Full guide
Guide to Innovative Practice Models (PDF, 1MB)
Want to read everything at one time? Use our full guide.
Questions?
If you have questions about innovative practice models, please email us.
The APA Practice Organization gratefully acknowledges the assistance of Jana Martin, PhD; Kevin Ryan, JD; Karen Dale, RN; Alan Nessman, JD; Geoffrey Kanter, PhD and Vincent J. Bellwoar, PhD, in developing this material.
Innovative Practice Models (IPM), formerly referred to as Alternative Practice Models, is now being used to avoid confusion with Alternative Payment Models.