Ask the expert: What policies should the medical staff have in place for medical students?

Hospitals should have policies in place that govern medical students who participate in training within their institution. Medical students should have their scope of practice, as well as the supervision requirements, clearly outlined. Any documentation requiring a co-signature also should be made clear. Staff members should readily be able to identify medical students and determine their approved scope of practice.

The same credentialing criteria holds true for medical students as for residents and fellows. The hospital can outline the requirements in the contract with the medical school or perform the verifications or track the documentation internally. Those who are in the facility for an extended period of time should also receive the appropriate level of orientation.

This week’s question and answer are from The Essential Guide to Medical Staff Reappointment, Second Edition, by Anne Roberts, CPMSM, CPCS.