Responding to quality of care concerns, assessment of a currently or previously licensed physician can assist medical organizations and physicians with questions about:
- Appropriateness of decision-making needed for adequate patient management
- Timing of response to pertinent patient presentations and clinical data
- Depth and breadth of clinical knowledge necessary to address patient needs
- Ability to respond to and make appropriate decisions in stressful situations
- Consistency of care provided
- Other issues related to patient care management
Medical organizations may also consider a referral for assessment in the following situations:
- Evaluation of the clinical competence of a physician who has been out of practice for an extended period
- Identification of educational activities needed to enhance physician practice patterns or assist in career transitions
- Review of the clinical capabilities of a physician with personal health concerns including recovery from disabling illness or injury, neurocognitive concerns, substance abuse, or other issues that may impact practice
