Setting up a fee for service program for psychiatric liaison nurses

In the current health care climate, hospitals are under great pressure to find creative ways of preserving and generating revenue. As a result, all positions are routinely scrutinized for their value to the institution. Nurses have always been regarded as a major drain on the hospital's pocketbook, rather than as a revenue-generating resource. Because of their unique roles, liaison nurses provide many patient services which are third-party reimbursable. Practical guidelines for setting up a fee for service program are outlined together with the possible negative and positive repercussions of such a program. Enhanced job security and professional self-esteem may be offset by resistance from other disciplines and the possibility of a reduction in the volume of referrals. Although nurses who bill may face opposition from some groups, the ability to generate revenue is an important feature of this nursing role and is viewed as a strong asset by the institution.