CPCS CPCS Locum Tenens and Temporary/Disaster Privileging

Question 1

What is the primary regulatory framework that governs temporary privileging for locum tenens practitioners at accredited hospitals?

Accepted Answer

CMS Conditions of Participation and accreditation standards (e.g., The Joint Commission)

Answer

State nurse practice acts

Answer

NPDB mandatory reporting rules

Answer

AMA Code of Medical Ethics

Question 2

Under The Joint Commission standards, temporary privileges may be granted in which two situations?

Accepted Answer

Patient care needs and to allow a practitioner to complete an initial application

Answer

Staff shortages and budget constraints

Answer

Locum tenens coverage and research projects

Answer

International practitioners and new graduates only

Question 3

A locum tenens physician arrives to cover a hospital unit. Primary source verification has not yet been completed. Which action is most appropriate?

Accepted Answer

Grant temporary privileges only after verifying licensure and querying the NPDB at minimum

Answer

Allow the physician to practice independently with department chief supervision

Answer

Delay all patient care until full credentialing is complete

Answer

Allow practice based solely on the staffing agency's representation

Question 4

Who typically has authority to grant temporary privileges to a locum tenens provider when the medical executive committee is not available?

Accepted Answer

The Chief Medical Officer or Medical Staff President under defined bylaws authority

Answer

The charge nurse of the unit

Answer

The hospital CEO without medical staff involvement

Answer

The credentialing coordinator after completing verification

Question 5

What is the maximum duration The Joint Commission generally recommends for temporary privileges before full credentialing must be completed?

Accepted Answer

90 days

Answer

30 days

Answer

60 days

Answer

120 days

Question 6

A hospital grants locum tenens privileges to a surgeon. Under which condition should those temporary privileges be immediately rescinded?

Accepted Answer

A red flag is discovered during primary source verification, such as a license sanction

Answer

The surgeon requests additional call coverage responsibilities

Answer

The original credentialing file is not received within two weeks

Answer

Another permanent surgeon returns from leave early