The Corporate Practice of Medicine (CPOM) doctrine is a foundational legal principle in Connecticut that ensures medical decisions remain in the hands of licensed physicians rather than corporate entities. As the healthcare industry continues to evolve in 2025, understanding and adhering to Connecticut’s CPOM laws is essential for healthcare providers, particularly those involved in telehealth, integrated care, and expanding medical practices. This guide outlines the critical compliance essentials healthcare providers need to navigate CPOM regulations successfully.
In Connecticut, staying compliant with CPOM regulations is a priority for healthcare providers looking to protect their practices. Access Plus Health helps you understand the critical elements of CPOM compliance in 2025, including physician oversight requirements and business structuring. With our guidance, you can streamline your operations and maintain a legally sound practice that meets the state’s evolving healthcare standards.

What is the Corporate Practice of Medicine Doctrine?

The CPOM doctrine prohibits non-licensed individuals or corporations from practicing medicine or directly employing physicians. This principle is designed to:

• Safeguard the autonomy of physicians in making patient care decisions.
• Prevent undue corporate influence on clinical practices.
• Maintain a focus on patient welfare over business interests.

In Connecticut, CPOM laws enforce clear boundaries between clinical and administrative roles to protect the integrity of healthcare delivery.

Key Compliance Essentials in Connecticut

1. Physician Ownership and Control
   Medical practices must be owned and controlled by licensed physicians. Non-physician entities are restricted to administrative roles and cannot interfere with clinical decision-making.
2. Management Services Agreements (MSAs)
   MSAs allow non-physician entities to provide non-clinical support, such as billing, staffing, and marketing. These agreements must clearly delineate responsibilities to ensure compliance with CPOM laws.
3. Telehealth and Out-of-State Physicians
   Telehealth providers operating in Connecticut must ensure that their practices align with CPOM laws, particularly regarding licensing and physician oversight. Out-of-state physicians providing telehealth services must be licensed in Connecticut.

Challenges for Healthcare Providers

1. Blurring of Clinical and Administrative Roles
   Misaligned MSAs or ambiguous organizational structures can lead to CPOM violations.
2. Multi-State Operations
   Providers expanding across state lines must navigate varying CPOM regulations, making compliance more complex.
3. Evolving Care Models
   Integrated care and telehealth introduce new challenges in maintaining the distinction between clinical and business operations.

Best Practices for Connecticut CPOM Compliance

1. Engage Legal Experts
   Work with attorneys experienced in healthcare law to ensure contracts and ownership structures comply with CPOM regulations.
2. Regular Compliance Audits
   Conduct periodic reviews of organizational practices to identify and address potential CPOM violations.
3. Develop Clear Policies
   Establish protocols that define the roles and responsibilities of physicians and non-clinical staff.
4. Train Staff on CPOM Requirements
   Educate all employees, particularly those in administrative roles, on the importance of maintaining compliance with CPOM laws.

Connecticut’s CPOM laws are designed to protect the integrity of medical practice and ensure that patient care remains a physician-driven process. By understanding and adhering to these regulations, healthcare providers can build compliant, efficient, and patient-centered practices.