Falsification of Clinical Credentials by Physicians Applying for Ambulatory-Staff Privileges

Abstract

As part of a quality assurance program, the authors reviewed the clinical credentials of 773 physicians applying for positions in the Humana MedFirst ambulatory care program. Relying on state licensing boards to validate each applicant's undergraduate education, the authors focused their efforts on verifying residency and board certification claims. Thirty-nine physicians had falsified information on their applications, with 27 misrepresenting their residency training, 10 falsely reporting board certification, and 2 giving false information about residency and certification. The authors recommend that the credentials of physicians applying for clinical privileges be carefully examined and independently verified. (KIE abstract)