Guidelines on EKG Interpretation Privileges for Family Physicians

The AAFP believes that qualified physicians should be allowed to interpret electrocardiograms in the hospital and that local tests to assure competence are appropriate as long as they apply equally to all physicians.

This is in agreement with the American Society of Internal Medicine's "Guidelines and Recommendations on Electrocardiogram Interpretation in the Hospital Setting." It states:

ASIM strongly recommends that EKG interpretation be opened up to all physicians who can demonstrate proficiency in accordance with the criteria.

This ASIM document goes on to discuss the value of proficiency testing, stating:

ASIM believes that an objective exam to evaluate proficiency in EKG interpretation is desirable.

The AAFP would acknowledge that proficiency testing could be a valuable measurement of a physician's ability to interpret EKGs. If such a means of determining qualifications is used, the Academy is adamant that it be applied fairly and equitably to all physicians seeking the privilege of EKG interpretation, regardless of the physician's specialty.