Implementation and expansion of inpatient and ambulatory pharmacist credentialing and privileging at an academic medical center

Purpose This article highlights one academic medical center’s effort to implement a complete credentialing and privileging (C&P) process for both inpatient and ambulatory clinical pharmacists. Summary The C&P process offers a recognized method to advance pharmacy practice. Credentialing is defined as a process whereby an individual is deemed qualified in a specific subject matter area. Privileging is the process whereby an institution grants authority to an individual to perform services based on credentials. Federal guidelines permit pharmacists to obtain the same level of privileges as professional medical staff, such as physicians, if relevant state laws allow for the corresponding pharmacist scope of practice. States establish laws and regulations that specify the scope of practice for various types of licensed healthcare professionals, including pharmacists. Many health systems have attempted pharmacist C&P practices in both the inpatient and ambulatory care setting with varying degrees of success and reach. Privileged pharmacists provide established benefits and value to other members of the healthcare team. Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) pursued C&P for both inpatient and ambulatory clinical pharmacists. Initiation and implementation processes were complex and accompanied by a variety of challenges. Conclusion OHSU operates with advanced pharmacy practice integrated into the interdisciplinary patient care team. Pharmacist C&P allows pharmacists to demonstrate significant clinical benefits and quality improvement in patient care delivery in both inpatient and ambulatory settings.