Ask the Expert: When should we use perception data to evaluate physician performance?

In the past, most hospitals have relied on clinical data to evaluate physician performance, but more and more organizations are recognizing that skills and knowledge are only a part of what defines a good physician. With the Joint Commission adopting the six core competency measures developed by the American Council of Graduate Medical Education, which include interpersonal/communication skills and professionalism, hospitals should consider using perception data to evaluate performance-related expectations in five areas:

• Interpersonal relationship skills
• Social interactions or team cooperation
• Oral and written communication skills
• Responsiveness
• Sensitivity to diversity

For more information about perception data, please refer to Measuring Physician Competency: How to Collect, Assess, and Provide Performance Data by Robert Marder, MD; Mark Smith, MD; Marla Smith, MHSA; and Vicki Searcy, CPMSM.