The Team Behind Safe, Reliable Credentialing

Intermountain Health Peaks Region Medical Staff Services Team

As a facility accredited by The Joint Commission (TJC), St. Mary’s Medical Staff Services is deeply committed to upholding credentialing standards. This intentionally thorough process ensures compliance with Medicare Conditions of Participation and, most importantly, upholds the highest level of patient safety.

Why does credentialing take time?

At its core, this process exists to protect patients. This work requires us to ask important questions and carefully vet each physician/APP with the mindset, “Would you want this provider caring for you or your family member?” That guiding question shapes every decision we make.

While the Medical Staff Bylaws allow up to 180 days to complete the credentialing process, St. Mary’s Medical Staff Services, supported by our Central Verification Office, averages 60 to 90 days from application receipt to Board of Directors approval. This strong timeline reflects the focused, behind-the-scenes work of our dedicated Medical Staff Professionals. Even so, our top priority remains ensuring safe, high-quality care for every patient we serve.

Peaks Medical Staff Services: team structure

• Central Verification Office (CVO)
  Manages application intake, primary source verification, including licenses, education, certifications, and the collection of required documentation.

• Medical Staff Privileging Coordinators
  Ensures physicians/APPs are trained and competent in the privileges they request, review references, collaborate with department chairs, and obtain additional information as needed.

• Delegated Credentialing Team
  Supports payer enrollment for employed physicians/APPs, including Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance organizations.

• Leadership, Local and Enterprise
  Guides strategy, supports our teams, and ensures compliance with regulatory and accreditation standards.

This month, the Peaks Medical Staff Services team met in Denver to review processes, discuss challenges, and develop meaningful solutions. Together, these teams form the backbone of our credentialing and privileging processes. Their dedication protects our patients, supports our physicians/APPs, and strengthens the integrity of St. Mary’s Medical Staff.

Thank you to everyone who contributes to this important work with such professionalism and commitment.

— Michele Arnold, MD, MBA
Vice President and Chief Medical Officer, Intermountain Health St. Mary’s Regional Hospital