The Need for an Informed Credentialing Program

Abstract

An informed credentialing process or the granting of physicians' privileges in an informed manner is one of the most important risk management functions performed in a health care facility today. Some of the objective information that should be integrated into the credentialing process to make it informed are such items as compliance with the medical staff bylaws, current licensure, professional liability coverage, malpractice experience, and results of medical staff quality assurance and committee activities. Failure to address problems that have been identified by the medical staff, administration, or governing board may constitute a breach of duty to patients. An in formed credentialing program helps maintain quali fied medical staff, promotes quality care, and avoids adverse publicity while minimizing the potential for individual and corporate liability.