Date: 04/29/2003
Q:
We are hiring a new physician to our practice. Our hospital, in order that they maintain their credentialing, must have our physician proctored during his first 10 encounters with a patient at the hospital. This means that another GI must be present during those encounters and can sign off as appropriate care given.
We also have a free standing Ambulatory Endoscopy Center that performs outpatient procedures and is credentialed with Medicare. Is there a similar requirement with Medicare?
A:
Medicare does not have a specific requirement that a new physician be proctored. However, Medicare and accrediting organizations will require that the new physician provide documentation of his/her skills in the form of letters from other physicians (usually at least two) who can attest to his/her skills. This requirement should also be consistent with the credentialing process as outlined in the medical staff bylaws and policies and procedures for credentialing of the Endoscopy Center. Also, the proctoring requirement of the hospital can be utilized as documentation for the Endoscopy Center’s credentialing.
Edward C. Luke
Senior Associate
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