During a system upgrade from Friday, Dec. 5, through Sunday, Dec. 7, the AAFP website, on-demand courses and CME purchases will be unavailable.

  • As a family physician, you should have access to your patients in all areas of a health care facility—including specialized and critical care units. Appropriate hospital credentialing and privileging ensures your ability to provide that care. The American Academy of Family Physicians’ (AAFP) policies on  Privileging, Family Medicine, and Hospital Medical Staff Membership state that privileging should be based on training, experience, and demonstrated current competence. Find the information you need to help you obtain credentials and protect your privileges.

    Privileges and credentials articles, guides and CME

    How to Obtain Credentials and Privileges

    Learn about document requirements, evidence to support procedure privileges for family physicians and phases of securing access.

    Handling a Hospital Privilege Dispute

    Members can access a legal opinion, tips and support from the AAFP to support a successful outcome.



    Obstetrics and maternity care privileges guides for AAFP members

    Self-advocacy guide: Applying for obstetrics privileges

    This guide from the AAFP and ABFM provides a detailed review of the evidence, the business case and more for family physicians providing obstetrical care.

    Presentation: Education on family medicine and obstetrics

    Close-up of a pregnant woman during medical visit

    Use this educational presentation in meetings with committees and health system leaders to advocate for obstetrics privileges for family physicians.