Q&A: Where on the Internet, besides the NPDB site, can I conduct background checks on nurse practitioners?
A: Nurse practitioners (NPs) must have licensure verified with the individual state in which they practice. Each state has its own laws regarding the scope of practice. Further, each nursing specialty has its own certifying body, which has to be checked individually if certification is required by your organization. I do not know of any source that would have all the information in one place.
You may want to refer to the following sources for more information:
American Nurses Association: www.nursingworld.org
American Board of Nursing Specialties: www.nursingcertification.org
In addition, HCPro's Web-based product Credentialing and Privileging Desktop Reference and book 2008 Credentials Verification Desk Reference contain the names and contact information for nursing licensure. For more information, go to www.hcmarketplace.com.
Editor's note: Kathy Matzka, CPMSM, CPCS-a Lebanon, IL-based speaker, consultant, and writer with over 20 years of experience in medical and professional staff services-fielded this question. Questions and topic suggestions can be e-mailed to CVU at mcoler@hcpro.com. We'll find an expert or resource to tackle the credentialing or verification issues that are challenging you.
