Credentials can tell you whether a health professional has met defined training and licensing requirements. They cannot, by themselves, tell you whether that person communicates well or is the right fit for your needs.
License and certification are different
A professional license is permission from a state authority to practice within that profession. Board certification is an additional credential in a medical specialty. Hospital privileges, insurer participation and academic titles are different again.
What to check
- An active license in the state where you will receive care.
- The professional’s field and, where relevant, specialty or subspecialty.
- Public disciplinary actions or restrictions shown by the licensing board.
- Board certification when it is relevant to the care you need.
- Who will actually perform a procedure and supervise your care.
Ask the office directly
For a procedure or specialized treatment, ask how often the clinician handles patients with needs like yours, what team members will be involved and where the care will take place. Ask how complications and after-hours concerns are handled.
Read a credential in context
No single badge guarantees a good outcome. Use credentials as one layer alongside experience with your condition, facility quality, communication, access and your own priorities.
Current tools
- ABMS Certification Matters — search participating physician board certifications.
- DocInfo — physician license and disciplinary information from U.S. medical boards.
- Medicare Care Compare — profile and comparison information for participating providers.
Archive note
Adapted from the Prepared Patient 411 topic “Standards for Health Professionals,” with old paid directories and dated claims removed.