Are Job Descriptions and Delineation of Privileges Forms Equivalent?

Are Job Descriptions and Delineation of Privileges Forms Equivalent?

Job descriptions and delineation of privileges forms are distinct and not the same.  Although they may be related in the context of ensuring clinical staff members operate within their defined roles and scope of practice, the documents serve different purposes.  A job description outlines what a clinical staff member is expected to do in their role in a broad manner, while the delineation of privileges ensures the clinical staff member is credentialed and authorized to perform specific clinical tasks safely and within the health center’s scope of services.  

The purpose of a job description is to provide a detailed overview of the roles, responsibilities, qualifications and expectations for a specific position.  Additionally, a job description is typically utilized for hiring, onboarding and ongoing performance evaluations.  The content of a job description generally includes the following:

  • Position title
  • Duties and responsibilities
  • Required qualifications such as education, licensure and certifications
  • Reporting structure
  • General scope of practice for the position/role

 

For example, a Mid-level Provider’s job description may define the responsibilities of the position/role such as conducting physical exams, managing chronic conditions and prescribing medications within the state scope of licensure.  

The purpose of delineation of privileges forms is to define and authorize the specific clinical services and procedures a clinical staff member is permitted to perform at the health center based on qualifications, experience and credentials.  Delineation of privileges forms are primarily utilized for medical staff and clinical governance purposes, and typically address the following:

  • Specific procedures or types of care the clinical staff member is qualified and approved to perform (suturing, administering injections, prescribing controlled substances)
  • Credentialing and privileging decisions made by the health center’s medical leadership and/or governing board of directors
  • Renewal or review requirements tied to the reappointment process (re-credentialing and re-privileging)

 

For example, a physician’s delineation of privileges form may demonstrate the individual is qualified and approved by medical staff and the governing board to perform skin biopsies and joint injections. 

While job descriptions and delineation of privileges forms are both important documents in ensuring effective management of clinical staff, they serve distinct and complementary functions. Job descriptions provide a clear framework for a clinical staff member’s general responsibilities, expectations, and qualifications, while delineation of privileges forms establish the specific clinical tasks a clinical staff member is authorized to perform based on their credentials and competency. Collectively, these documents help ensure clinical staff work within their defined scope of practice, maintain patient safety, and sustain the quality of care within the health center’s operational structure.

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