In general, after credentialing is completed, what is the next step to allow PA practice within a facility?

In general, after credentialing is completed, what is the next step to allow PA practice within a facility?

• A. Termination.
• B. Renewal of credentials.
• C. De-licensure.
• D. Privileging to grant clinical privileges.

Answer: (D)

Privileging is the next step after credentialing. Once credentialing verifies that a PA has the appropriate license, certification, education, and overall qualifications, the facility must authorize the PA to practice within its walls. Privileging is the process by which the medical staff committee (often with hospital administration) grants specific clinical privileges, defining exactly what procedures and activities the PA is allowed to perform, prescribe, or supervise within that particular setting. This determination is based on proven competency, training, and the facility’s policies and supervision requirements, and it ties the PA’s skills to the facility’s scope of practice. Termination would end any privileges, renewal of credentials is about maintaining licensure, and de-licensure removes the license entirely; none of these establishes the facility-specific authority to perform patient care.

Privileging is the next step after credentialing. Once credentialing verifies that a PA has the appropriate license, certification, education, and overall qualifications, the facility must authorize the PA to practice within its walls. Privileging is the process by which the medical staff committee (often with hospital administration) grants specific clinical privileges, defining exactly what procedures and activities the PA is allowed to perform, prescribe, or supervise within that particular setting. This determination is based on proven competency, training, and the facility’s policies and supervision requirements, and it ties the PA’s skills to the facility’s scope of practice. Termination would end any privileges, renewal of credentials is about maintaining licensure, and de-licensure removes the license entirely; none of these establishes the facility-specific authority to perform patient care.