In recent years, it has become common for patients to sue a hospital for negligent peer review when they bring a malpractice action against a physician. Their claim generally is that inadequate medical staff monitoring of an incompetent physician allowed a bad outcome in their care. These are referred to as corporate negligent suits, because the argument is that a properly run hospital would not have admitted or retained an incompetent practitioner on its medical staff.

The Superior Court of New Jersey, Appellate Division (the “Court”) recently affirmed a trial court’s finding that a hospital was not only within its rights to, but was required to report a physician’s resignation while she was under review to the New Jersey Board of Medical Examiners (the “Board”).

All hospitals have some kind of peer review system in place, yet physicians and support staff often receive little training on how to conduct peer review well. Conducting peer review fairly and efficiently requires critical steps be taken by peer review coordinators, physician reviewers, the peer review committee, and department chairs. By supporting these players in the peer review process, organizations can ensure they exceed the regulatory requirements regarding peer review and focus on physician performance excellence.

There is a declining trend in the number of family medicine (FM) physicians receiving obstetrics privileges nowadays. These providers were once responsible for the family in every aspect of its development—from a child’s conception to adulthood. Now they are more of a means to an end, a first stop for patients who want to be referred to a specialist. Are these changes the result of progress and improved specialization—a form of natural selection in the medical industry—or is personalized family care taking a backseat in favor of modern efficiency?

The Credentialing Resource Center (CRC) team would like to thank everyone who made the 2018 CRC Symposium a resounding success. Access our photo gallery featuring snapshots from educational sessions captured during the two-day training extravaganza in Las Vegas. 

Writing books/columns and speaking on webinars and at seminars are great ways to share your industry knowledge with peers. With the guidance of a solid publishing company, you’ll see your thoughts and tips become beacons to others in your field. We’re always looking for new authors, speakers, and reviewers. For more than 20 years, HCPro has been a leading provider of integrated healthcare information, education, training, and consulting products. Among HCPro’s need-to-know information products are a vast array of books, newsletters, websites, annual webinars, and annual live events.

Check out (and contribute to) the latest conversations on topics ranging from certification to sharing OPPE information.