Which sequence correctly describes the typical order of authorization for a PA to practice?

Which sequence correctly describes the typical order of authorization for a PA to practice?

• A. License, Credentialing, Privileging
• B. Credentialing, License, Privileging
• C. Privileging, License, Credentialing
• D. License, Privileging, Credentialing

Answer: (A)

The sequence starts with the legal permission to practice, then the organization verifies qualifications, and finally the facility grants specific clinical privileges. First, licensure from the state is required to practice at all—it’s the legal authorization. After that, the employing organization goes through credentialing, which verifies your education, certification, and background to ensure you meet its standards. Only then does the institution grant privileges, meaning you’re allowed to perform particular procedures and treat certain patient populations within that facility. So, license, credentialing, then privileging is the correct order.

The sequence starts with the legal permission to practice, then the organization verifies qualifications, and finally the facility grants specific clinical privileges. First, licensure from the state is required to practice at all—it’s the legal authorization. After that, the employing organization goes through credentialing, which verifies your education, certification, and background to ensure you meet its standards. Only then does the institution grant privileges, meaning you’re allowed to perform particular procedures and treat certain patient populations within that facility. So, license, credentialing, then privileging is the correct order.