Who May Apply to the Medical Staff?

Medical Doctors and Doctors of Osteopathy (MD's and DO's), Podiatrists (DPM) at Bon Secours-St. Francis only, and Dentists (DDS and DMD). All others (such as nurse midwives, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, surgical assistants, etc.) are considered allied health professionals (AHP's) and may not apply for membership to the medical staff. However, they may apply to the allied health staff, provided that they meet the criteria set forth in the Medical Staff Bylaws and Medical Staff Policy.

How should I return the pre-application?

You may download the pre-application from the website and return the completed original by mail. You may fax it to expedite service, but the originals must be received by mail, there is no fee for the pre-application process. Please be sure to review the checklist to ensure that all necessary information and documents are included before returning them. If you have questions you should contact that Roper St. Francis Healthcare Medical Staff Services office for additional documentation and instructions.

What should I expect after returning the completed pre-application?

The pre-application and attachments will be acknowledged by email, letter, and/or phone. (If you have not received an acknowledgment within one week, please contact the Medical Staff Office). The materials will be thoroughly reviewed and processed. Once complete, and having met all eligibility requirements, a full application packet will be mailed.

Does the same application fee apply to all applicants?

Yes. The fee for all medical staff applicants is $350 for each hospital or $400 if for both at the time of initial appointment, and the fee for all allied health applicants is $150 per hospital. Applicants who plan to join an existing group may be able to make arrangements within that group for payment, but please understand that the Medical Staff Office does not coordinate such arrangements, and the applicant is ultimately responsible for the payment. Payment must be received before any processing will begin. The application fee is non-refundable, so if for any reason your application is denied or you withdraw your application after paying the fee, you will not be entitled to a refund.

What is the timeframe for the credentialing process?

The credentialing process is a joint effort of the hospitals and the current medical staff, and we are proud to have a rigorous review process in place. This is for the protection of our patients, our medical staff, and our hospital. You can well understand the need for thoroughness in this very important process. The general timeframe for the entire process is generally around 60 days for processing, from the time the application is received an additional 60 days until final board approval is given. It is prudent to keep this in mind as you consider starting your practice, in relation to when the approval process should be complete. Please understand that delays can occur for a number of reasons - the most common delay is proof of malpractice/liability insurance coverage. The more complete and accurate your application is, the better the chances are that it will be completed in a timely manner.

What if I change my mind and wish to withdraw my application?

If you should choose to withdraw your application after submitting it to the Medical Staff Office, written notice must be given. Failure to do so may result in an adverse action being taken against you. The application fee will not be refunded.

Once I'm on staff, will I have to pay any other fees?

There are no membership fees, however, Bon Secours St. Francis Hospital does have a $50 reappointment fee. The Bylaws do not have any mandatory meeting requirement, however, all members are encouraged to attend all department meetings as well as the Quarterly Medical Staff Meetings to remain informed on matters pertaining to their departments and within the hospital.

Who should I contact with questions?

The new physician orientation package you receive at the time of interview contains a lot of valuable information. The Medical Staff office is pleased to assist you with questions you may have about staff membership, the hospital, and the community. We may not have the answers you need, but most of the time we can direct you to a resource that can help. If your questions deal with clinical matters, you may wish to speak to the Chief of your Department or the Chief of Staff. If your questions deal with the hospital organization, feel free to contact Administration or the specific Department Manager/Director. Questions about the community can be directed to our Marketing Department.