This is a complex and controversial question that may not have a definitive answer. However, based on some of the information I found online, here are some possible ways that current formal institutions may restrict the field of healthcare professionals:
- Formal institutions such as the American Medical Association (AMA) may oppose scope of practice expansions of nonphysician professionals, such as nurse practitioners, physician assistants, pharmacists, and others, that they deem to threaten patient safety or encroach on the practice of medicine.
- Formal institutions may also impose professional self-regulation in medicine, which involves setting and enforcing standards of conduct, qualifications, education, and ethics for physicians and other healthcare professionals. This may limit the autonomy and flexibility of healthcare professionals in some situations.
- Formal institutions may also be liable for the health and safety of healthcare professionals during public health emergencies, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. This may entail providing adequate personal protective equipment, testing, vaccination, mental health support, and legal protection for healthcare professionals who are at risk of infection or malpractice claims.
Whether these restrictions are reasonable or not may depend on one's perspective and values. Some possible arguments for and against these restrictions are:
- For: These restrictions may be justified by the need to protect patient safety, quality of care, public health, and professional integrity. They may also reflect the expertise, training, and skills of physicians and other healthcare professionals who have a duty to serve their patients and society. They may also promote accountability, transparency, and trust in the healthcare system.
- Against: These restrictions may be seen as unnecessary, outdated, or harmful by some healthcare professionals or patients who seek more access, choice, innovation, or autonomy in healthcare delivery. They may also be perceived as driven by self-interest, protectionism, or paternalism by some stakeholders who challenge the authority or monopoly of formal institutions. They may also hinder collaboration, diversity, or responsiveness in the healthcare workforce.