Accreditation
process whereby an independent, impartial organization/agency formally recognizes a health facility or an educational program as meeting its predetermined standards
Certification
permission granted by a nongovernment agency or association to practice a profession after successful completion of pre-established standards
Code of Ethics
set of ethical standards/principles which guise an individual's behavior/conduct
Ethics
moral standards/principles governing professional conduct
Good Samaritan Laws
state laws protecting health professionals from civil liability when providing emergency assistance; assistance cannot be reckless/grossly negligent
Licensure
permission granted by a government agency to practice a profession after successful completion of pre-established standards; requirements vary by state
Licensure by Endorsement
process of evaluating an "out-of-state" professional's credentials
Malpractice
professional misconduct/negligence
Professional Liability
legal obligation of health professional, or their insurers, to compensate patients for damages caused by acts of omission or commission by practitioners
Reciprocity
mutual agreement between two states whereby each state recognizes the license from the other state
Registration
listing of licensed or certified health professionals on an official roster
Scope of Practice
professional practice boundaries (rights, responsibilities, restrictions)
Standards of Care
expected professional conduct in a given situation (reasonably prudent person concept)