John Ivins Discusses the Keys to Successful Peer Review

03.23.2018

In an article published in Hospital Peer Review’s April newsletter, John Ivins explains that the keys to successful peer review are thorough and consistently implemented policies. “Well-written, specific hospital bylaws and related policies on issues like fair hearing plans and disruptive behavior are critical so that all physicians whose actions are the subject of peer review, and any possible adverse action concerning his or her privileges, know what is expected,” Ivins told the publication in an interview. “They also are key to helping the physicians believe, as the process is unfolding regarding them, that they are being fairly administered.”

Many disputes arise when physicians on a medical staff believe that the peer review process is too subjective, punitive or unfair as it is being administered relative to them. Often, these issues arise because the expectations of the medical staff are not clearly set forth in the hospital’s bylaws and related policies. “If the rules are well understood and the application of the rules is applied as consistently as possible, any perceived inequities in the process can be minimized,” Ivins advises. For the full article, subscribers to Hospital Peer Review may click here.