Reappointment: Top 10 Tips

1. DO YOU REALLY NEED TO MAINTAIN PRIVILEGES?

Do you use the facility on a regular basis? Do your patients need access to this facility? If not and you have access to other facilities, consider whether you really want to maintain privileges there.

2. READ ALL QUESTIONS CAREFULLY AS THEY MAY HAVE CHANGED

Some facilities attempt to elicit more information by adding or changing questions. Before assuming the same answer, re-read it carefully and ensure your answer is accurate.

3. DON'T RELY ON YOUR STAFF TOO MUCH

Don't fall into the habit of allowing a staff person to complete the applications and submit them, with you merely providing your signature.

4. TAKE THE REAPPLICATION PROCESS SERIOUSLY

As with initial application, a staff person can draft the answers, gather the attachments, and actually submit the reapplication. But the physician must make sure that the application is wholly accurate and complete before signing. Don’t allow staff to use a signature stamp!

5. RECOGNIZE WARNING SIGNALS

Typically, you will be required to recredential every two years. If a facility notifies you that your recredentialing will be required on a more frequent basis, you may have issues. Other warning signals include conditions for reappointment such as CME classes, anger management classes, and being placed on probation or proctorship.

6. DON'T IGNORE WARNING SIGNALS

If you believe that something is awry, don't ignore the problems. Make inquiry to find out if there is an investigation. An attorney versed in this area can help you communicate with the facility and determine how any issues can be addressed.

7. DON'T RESIGN OR FAIL TO REAPPLY IF YOU SUSPECT AN INVESTIGATION

There is no requirement that a physician be notified of an "investigation" for one to exist. It is crucial to confirm your status before you resign or let your privileges lapse by failing to reapply, which will trigger a negative report to the state licensing board and the federal data bank (NPDB). An attorney's help to resolve the matter is well worth the limited expense.

8. INFORM FACILITY OF ANY CHANGES

Medical staff bylaws typically provide for corrective action in the event that the responses in your application are or become materially false or inaccurate. You have a continuing duty to make sure that the information you have provided is updated and valid.

9. REAPPLY WELL IN ADVANCE

Don't wait until the last minute. Complete your reapplication in plenty of time so that any issues can be resolved before the facility makes any final decisions.

10. KEEP INFORMATION CONFIDENTIAL

All credentialing information is subject to privilege and confidentiality protections, so keep it private.