Va Memo

NATIONAL PRACTITIONER DATA BANK (NPDB) REGULATIONS

2900-0621

Querying the National Practitioner Data Bank [NPDB] is a requirement for appointment to any facility accredited by the Joint Commission as well as any practitioner in a HMO/PPO/MCO accredited by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA). Querying (eg, “checking”)  the NPDB for information on practitioners that are licensed or certified to provide health care services assist VA medical facilities in making employment, credentialing, and licensing decisions.   This applies to all potential and current physicians providing treatment at VA facilities, including contractors. Querying complements the information received from other sources concerning a physician’s past performance, experience, training, and education.   The VA queries for several reasons including:

• Initial appointment and privileging decisions for applicants

• Professional review

• Two-year mandatory activity, clinical privileges reviews

• Decisions related to continued credentialing and employment

Through these queries, we are alerted if a practitioner has been reported by state licensing boards, hospitals, professional societies, and other health care organizations.   These reports are a result of the practitioner engaging in unprofessional behavior, being involved in a medical malpractice case which was settled with payment, or raising significant concerns related to their competence.  

A thorough vetting of all practitioners who apply for a medical staff appointment at a VA facility,  as well as those who have a current appointment,  is critical to ensure that only the most qualified and competent practitioners are caring for the veterans of our nation.  VA’s participation with this federally mandated program is a key component of ensuring the safety of our patients.

Marianne Chick, MHA

Health Systems Specialist

VHA Office of Quality and Safety / Credentialing and Privileging (10A4B2)

Office:  919-474-3937

Mobile:  919- 210-2414