The bureaucratic hassle of applying to different health plans is enough to keep some physicians from participating in Medicaid programs where reimbursement levels are lower than private plans, so some state health plan associations are finding ways to streamline the process.

In the past five years, the total compensation of primary care physicians increased by more than 10%, nearly double that of specialty physicians, according to data released by the Medical Group Management Association (MGMA).

In today’s variable healthcare climate, hospitals should take extra pains to assemble a medical staff that’s capable of—and committed to—achieving big-picture patient care and community service goals. Today’s free resource, a sample intended practice plan, supports this effort. Before granting medical staff membership and privileges, consider asking applicants to complete such a form to ensure their intended scope of practice aligns with the institution’s overarching aims.

When faced with a negligent credentialing claim, two priorities are paramount regarding documents in the hospital’s or healthcare entity’s possession. Take steps to ensure that information does not go missing. In most organizations, a risk manager will place the relevant credentials file in a separate locked location while litigation is pending or ongoing.

Published 5/23/18

A working relationship with law enforcement is key to the safety, efficacy, and well-being of everyone in the hospital: providers and patients. That said, hospitals and law enforcement have different goals. And while the two usually work well together, they can find themselves at odds.

Published 5/21/18

Along with their existing medical staff credentialing obligations, MSPs are increasingly tasked with managing provider enrollment duties. With a solid grasp of the payer credentialing process and requirements, MSPs can avoid payer credentialing delays to reduce lost revenue.

In observance of Memorial Day, we will not publish CRC Daily on Monday, May 28. We'll resume our normal publication schedule on Tuesday, May 29.

Does your hospital require a drug screen for physicians on the medical staff at initial appointment? Answer our new poll question to let us know. You must be signed in with your free or paid CRC account to participate.

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