In last week's issue of CVU, we incorrectly stated that the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) is the only primary source accepted by The Joint Commission for verifying foreign medical education. Several astute readers pointed out that the AMA Physician Masterfile is deemed an equivalent source and may be used for verifying foreign degrees. Read the AMA's description of the primary source reported data contained in the AMA Physician Masterfile (.pdf).
In the August 5 issue of CVU, we wrote that when credentialing at reappointment, it is a best practice to query other hospitals where a physician holds privileges. A reader pointed out that The Joint Commission does not require you to query other hospitals unless the physician is not currently active at your own facility.
Please send comments and questions to David Weliver.
