Education, residency and credentialing standards change periodically.

To navigate the sometimes complex and even inconsistent world of privileging, it is important to understand that hospital bylaws, department policies, and the privileging process are designed to ensure the safety of patients and continued access to competent care. The Guide to Credentialing and Privileging Doctors of Podiatric Medicine, distributed by the American Board of Podiatric Medicine (ABPM), provides a comprehensive summary of podiatry’s educational and residency requirements over the past decade and the importance of understanding these as you seek privileges with a hospital. You will note that privileging considers and reviews your training, residencies, post-grad certification, fellowship, preceptorship concurrent with your overall experience and board certification. This guide will help you understand the process more thoroughly, so you are prepared. It also serves as a guide for hospitals and credentialers who must continually work to stay current with changes in specialty fields.