As a family physician, you should have access to your patients in all areas of a health care facility – including special/critical care units – through appropriate hospital privileging. The credentialing and privileging process helps to ensure both quality patient care and your ability to provide that care.
Hospitals have the medical and legal responsibility to conduct a thorough, comprehensive credentialing process and admit privileges in accordance with your individual qualifications (i.e., documented training and/or experience, demonstrated abilities, and current competence).
The information below provides a general overview of the credentialing and privileging process. Note that you will need to read and follow your hospital’s application instructions carefully—the process may differ from the steps outlined below, and from one hospital to another.
Step 1: Understand the Basics
Step 2: Request an Application Packet and Study the Medical Staff Bylaws
Step 3: Gather and Submit Your Application Materials
Step 4: In the Event of a Privileging Dispute