The Corporate Practice of Medicine (CPOM) doctrine is a critical regulatory framework for healthcare providers operating in Georgia. Designed to ensure that medical decisions remain in the hands of licensed physicians, Georgia’s CPOM laws play a significant role in shaping how medical practices and telehealth providers operate. For healthcare professionals, understanding the nuances of these regulations is essential for maintaining compliance and delivering patient-centered care. This guide highlights key compliance insights for navigating Georgia’s CPOM laws in 2025.

Understanding Georgia’s Corporate Practice of Medicine (CPOM) laws is critical for healthcare providers looking to ensure compliance in 2025. Access Plus Health offers expert insights into these regulations, including ownership restrictions, collaboration guidelines, and physician oversight requirements. Whether you’re running a traditional practice or expanding into telehealth, our tailored guidance helps you navigate Georgia’s CPOM laws with confidence and maintain a compliant, successful operation.

What is the Corporate Practice of Medicine Doctrine?

The CPOM doctrine prohibits non-licensed individuals or entities from:

• Employing physicians to provide medical services.
• Controlling clinical decision-making in healthcare practices.

In Georgia, CPOM laws ensure that:

• Physicians retain autonomy over patient care.
• Business interests do not interfere with medical ethics.
• Healthcare remains focused on patient welfare.

Key Compliance Requirements in Georgia

1. Physician Ownership and Leadership
   Georgia’s CPOM laws require that medical practices be owned by licensed physicians. Non-physician entities may offer administrative support but cannot influence clinical operations.
2. Management Services Agreements (MSAs)
   Non-clinical entities can collaborate with physicians through MSAs, which must clearly define roles and responsibilities. MSAs are limited to administrative functions such as billing, HR, and marketing.
3. Telehealth and Remote Care
   Physicians delivering telehealth services in Georgia must hold a valid state medical license and retain full responsibility for clinical decisions.

Challenges for CPOM Compliance

1. Blurring of Roles:
   Mismanaged MSAs or ambiguous operational structures can lead to CPOM violations, especially when non-clinical entities inadvertently exert control over clinical decisions.
2. Emerging Technologies:
   Telehealth and AI-powered diagnostic tools raise questions about responsibility and compliance with CPOM laws.
3. Multi-State Operations:
   Providers operating in multiple states must navigate Georgia’s CPOM requirements while ensuring compliance with other jurisdictions.

Best Practices for Compliance

1. Engage Legal Counsel:
   Partner with attorneys specializing in Georgia healthcare law to ensure your practice’s ownership and agreements align with CPOM regulations.
2. Conduct Regular Audits:
   Review MSAs, workflows, and operational structures to identify potential compliance gaps.
3. Establish Clear Policies:
   Develop internal policies that separate clinical responsibilities from administrative functions and ensure physician-led decision-making.
4. Train Staff and Stakeholders:
   Educate your team on CPOM laws and the importance of maintaining compliance in day-to-day operations.

Georgia’s CPOM laws are essential for preserving the integrity of healthcare delivery. By understanding these regulations and adopting robust compliance strategies, healthcare providers can operate confidently while prioritizing ethical, patient-centered care.