Credentialing and Provider Perceptions

Medical credentialing is the process of becoming affiliated withor maintaining affiliation witha hospital, healthcare facility, or insurance company. The credentialing process can be tedious, but provides an assurance of provider qualifications and that quality medical practices are being followed. Part of the credentialing process can involve a review of performance based on the use of information systems, documentation standards, ease of use, and professional traits. Some may even refer to the credentialing process as a necessary evil. Using Gruber and Dewar’s “Factors in Medical Student Beliefs About Electronic Health Record Use” study, discuss elements of the credentialing process that may influence provider perceptions; and ultimately effective use of CDS functions.