Which of the following is included in COP's criteria for appointment to the medical staff?

• A. number of malpractice claims
• B. COP's criteria for appointment to medical staff/granting privileges
• C. years in practice
• D. character, competence, training, experience and judgement

Answer: (C)

Experience measured by time in practice is included because it serves as a practical marker of clinical exposure and professional maturity. Having more years in practice tends to reflect a clinician who has encountered a wider range of patient scenarios, learned to navigate system processes, and developed steadier judgment—all of which are important when deciding eligibility for medical staff appointment and privileges. While other qualities like character, competence, training, and judgment are also relevant factors, the specific metric of years in practice provides a concrete, objective sense of sustained experience that credentialing bodies commonly consider when granting privileges.