Delaware’s Corporate Practice of Medicine (CPOM) laws play a pivotal role in shaping how medical practices operate, particularly in a rapidly evolving healthcare environment. From ownership structures to telehealth services, CPOM laws ensure that the focus remains on patient care rather than corporate profits. This blog explores how Delaware’s CPOM laws impact medical practices and compliance in 2025.

Delaware’s CPOM laws significantly shape how medical practices are structured and operated, making compliance essential in 2025. Access Plus Health provides expert insights into how these laws impact healthcare providers, from ownership restrictions to physician oversight requirements. We help you navigate these regulations seamlessly, ensuring your practice stays compliant while maintaining operational efficiency. Let Access Plus Health be your trusted partner in navigating Delaware’s CPOM laws.

The Purpose of CPOM Laws in Delaware

Delaware’s CPOM doctrine is designed to:

• Prevent non-licensed entities from influencing clinical decisions.
• Protect the independence of physicians in delivering patient care.
• Ensure that healthcare remains a patient-centered service.

Key Areas of Impact for Medical Practices

1. Practice Ownership and Control
   Medical practices in Delaware must be owned by physicians, ensuring that business interests do not interfere with clinical autonomy. Non-licensed entities can only provide non-clinical support through defined agreements.
2. Telehealth and Virtual Care
   The growing adoption of telehealth presents unique challenges for CPOM compliance. Physicians providing telehealth services must be licensed in Delaware and retain full control over patient care decisions.
3. Integrated Care Models
   Multidisciplinary teams involving physicians, nurse practitioners, and other healthcare professionals must adhere to CPOM laws, ensuring that physicians maintain leadership roles in clinical decision-making.

Compliance Challenges in 2025

1. Technological Advancements
   The use of AI and digital health tools can blur the lines of clinical responsibility, requiring clear policies to maintain compliance.
2. Corporate Influence
   Non-clinical entities involved in management services must avoid exerting undue influence on medical decisions.
3. Regulatory Complexity
   Multi-state practices face the challenge of aligning Delaware’s CPOM requirements with varying regulations in other jurisdictions.

Strategies for Ensuring Compliance

1. Clarify Roles and Responsibilities
   Use MSAs to define the scope of administrative services and avoid conflicts with clinical functions.
2. Engage Compliance Experts
   Work with healthcare attorneys and consultants to ensure that operational practices align with Delaware’s CPOM laws.
3. Implement Internal Audits
   Regularly review your practice’s compliance protocols to identify potential risks and make necessary adjustments.
4. Educate Leadership Teams
   Provide training for physicians and administrators on the importance of CPOM compliance and their respective responsibilities.

Delaware’s CPOM laws significantly influence how medical practices operate, emphasizing the importance of physician autonomy and patient-centered care. By understanding and adhering to these regulations, healthcare providers can navigate the complexities of modern practice while ensuring compliance.