| Contributor
Medical centers are arguably the most emotionally intense, fast-paced environments. The stakes are high, and the risks even higher, especially with potential errors ranging from surgical to diagnostic to prescription to equipment to communication, and beyond. In fact, medical errors have been recognized as a serious public health problem, with their cost estimated at $20 billion annually. But these implications go far beyond money. Reported as the third leading cause of death in the US, such errors are critical, calling for immediate and effective solutions.
According to Pamela Smith, founder and CEO of PRS Credentialing Services, the safety of a hospital falls on the professionals who work there. After all, individuals involved in healthcare processes are the ones able to identify deficiencies, turn failures into opportunities for growth, and use their judgment and expertise to prevent worst-case scenarios. And, in healthcare, building a knowledgeable team and a patient-safety culture begins with credentialing.
A formal process designed to deliver the highest level of patient care, credentialing rigorously scrutinizes every candidate’s necessary qualifications, skills, experience, and practice history. By establishing a consistent level of competence, medical facilities mitigate the risk of failure and instill trust among patients. For many, however, credentialing is more of an afterthought rather than a priority.
Though not a novel concept, the past five decades have significantly refined the process, making it both more precise and complex. “The administrative process can become overwhelming,” Smith admits. “Between submitting an application, gathering and providing credentials, creating a comprehensive file, and waiting for the board approval, it’s no wonder that many feel lost. And even if you gain approval, files have to be maintained periodically.”
Having worked in the medical services industry for 18 years, Smith understands the nuances of credentialing beyond the surface, collaborating with ASCs, hospitals, and other medical institutions to ensure their staff is reliable, experienced, and ethical. “At the end of the day, it’s about patient safety. Where there are lives at stake, there’s no space for cutting corners,” she stresses. “Yet, credentialing is arguably one of the least recognized parts of healthcare.”
Instances of non-compliance, ranging from an expired medical license to revoked practice rights and beyond, carry far-reaching consequences. Depending on the breach’s severity and nature, it can lead to financial penalties, civil lawsuits, criminal charges, and even closure. “Without due diligence, hospitals are more vulnerable to failure,” adds Smith. “Sometimes, it’s as simple as a license that expired the day before that you forgot to keep track of. But regulatory checks aren’t always announced, and that one license could be the beginning of serious problems.”
Beyond credentialing, PRS assists medical facilities with interim staffing, connecting them with certified, experienced, and passionate professionals. By filling administrative positions with qualified coordinators, directors, and executives, the company helps hospitals foster thriving environments run by cohesive units. “If everyone’s mindsets are aligned, panic and chaos will be replaced with clarity and collaboration,” shares Smith. “There will always be setbacks and unexpected difficulties. But creating a team comprising individuals who genuinely care and have the right skills is the first step.”
To build on top of a thriving team, Smith emphasizes the importance of fostering environments of mutual respect and recognition. She believes that care cascades down various levels, from the hospital owners caring about management to doctors to nurses to assistants to patients. In an industry centered on human lives, human connections remain in the shadows, and Smith’s mission is to bring them into the spotlight.
“If you feel good at work, you will naturally make others feel the same way. That’s why I love connecting teams with the right professionals. I’ve worn many hats in my career, but being a relationship-builder has to be my favorite,” Smith reflects. “In every hospital and every clinic, cooperation is key. Because only when every professional works toward the same goal, every process works in harmony – and in compliance.”
This article is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. If you are seeking medical advice, diagnosis or treatment, please consult a medical professional or healthcare provider.
