Hospital privileges are central to a physician’s ability to practice, yet they can be jeopardized quickly through the hospital peer review process. Whether triggered by an adverse outcome, a patient complaint, or internal politics, peer review investigations can have lasting consequences—revoked privileges, mandatory reporting to the National Practitioner Data Bank (NPDB), and even state licensing board action.
These proceedings are often framed as quality control, but they can evolve into high-stakes disciplinary matters. At Shaw & Wiar – Attorneys at Law, we represent physicians and healthcare professionals facing credentialing challenges and peer review investigations. Our goal is to protect your rights, your reputation, and your continued ability to practice in hospital settings.
Common Grounds for Review and Disciplinary Action
Hospitals initiate peer review proceedings for a variety of reasons. Regardless of the trigger, these reviews can place your privileges and career at risk if not handled with care.
Adverse Outcomes or Surgical Complications
Even when a complication is not the result of negligence, a poor outcome can lead to scrutiny. Mortality rates, readmissions, or post-operative infections may lead to peer review, especially if the institution believes trends are emerging. We help physicians demonstrate adherence to the standard of care through expert review and contextual analysis.
Alleged Disruptive Conduct
Hospitals increasingly cite professionalism and behavioral concerns—such as perceived rudeness, refusal to follow policy, or interpersonal disputes—as grounds for review. These subjective claims can carry significant weight and damage reputations if not faced head-on.
Documentation or Billing Concerns
Issues with incomplete or inconsistent charting might also result in administrative reviews. Even when unintentional, these concerns can be portrayed as systemic problems. Our team helps frame the narrative, provide corrective context, and prevent escalation to reporting agencies or licensing boards.
Defending Your Rights and Privileges
Hospital bylaws and state laws provide physicians with specific procedural rights in these situations. Unfortunately, many healthcare providers are unaware of these protections until it’s too late. At Shaw & Wiar – Attorneys at Law, we ensure our clients fully exercise their right to notice, to respond to allegations, and to a fair hearing when necessary.
Our work begins long before the hearing stage. We assist in crafting responses to initial inquiries, securing expert opinions, and negotiating outcomes that preserve hospital standing. In cases where formal peer review hearings occur, we provide strategic representation aimed at limiting or eliminating adverse findings.
Adverse peer review outcomes are not just internal matters; they often result in mandatory reporting to the NPDB and state medical boards. These reports can jeopardize future credentialing or even your licensing status. With our firm, you have experienced legal advocates who understand both medical and legal challenges who will fight to protect your career every step of the way.
Let Shaw & Wiar – Attorneys at Law Secure Your Hospital Privileges
Protecting your hospital privileges and dealing with peer review is vital if you want your medical career to continue. Reach out to Shaw & Wiar – Attorneys at Law today to learn how we can help.