Ask the expert: How do you encourage full disclosure on an application?

When it comes to credentialing interrogatories—question  on the medical staff application that focus on everything from licensure, registration, and clinical history to malpractice claims and board certification—think about the language that’s being used.  Consider whether you want to use the words “every” and “voluntarily” or “involuntarily.” These words will force full disclosure. For example, if someone voluntarily surrendered his license while under review, the applicant might think he or she did not need to disclose that information if the adjective “voluntary” was not specifically included.

Similarly, using the phrase “any jurisdiction” means that the applicant will not just limit the response to state licenses.

Sometimes you don’t want to use the phrase “healthcare organization” because it is too limiting. Adding “professional organization” will force disclosure of information regarding disciplinary actions, etc. by all relevant organization, including membership in professional societies.

The previous text is an excerpt from the HCPro, Inc. book Medical Staff Law, by Anne Roberts, CPMSM, CPCS.