Year: 2011
Resolution Number: 50
Action Taken: Approved
Status:
Author(s): Brian Roelof, MD
Sponsor: Domenic R. Federico, MD
On behalf of: Kent County Delegation
Committee: B (Legislation)
Resolved Section(s):
RESOLVED: That MSMS seek legislation to require that physicians, nurses and other health providers wear a clearly visible photo identification badge that states their credentials in large block letters with descriptions such as “physician”, “nurse”, “physician assistant”, nurse practitioner”, and that the badges be worn at all times when in contact with patients.RESOLVED: That MSMS advocate that health systems design and utilize different color ID badges for the different classifications of providers.RATIONALE: Whereas Resolution 15-11 encompassed a broad range of topics and used terminology that left the Committee unsure of the author’s intent, Resolution 50-11 defines credentials and is limited to identification requirements within health system facilities. The Committee preferred this resolution as it addresses an important aspect of transparency and disclosure in health care settings. And while the Committee had some reservations about how much this would improve confusion among patients and reducing improper communication by lesser trained professionals, the Committee believes that the patients should have the right to know the type of professional treating them.
RESOLVED: That MSMS seek legislation to require that physicians, nurses and other health providers wear a clearly visible photo identification badge that states their credentials in large block letters with descriptions such as “physician”, “nurse”, “physician assistant”, nurse practitioner”, and that the badges be worn at all times when in contact with patients.RESOLVED: That MSMS advocate that health systems design and utilize different color ID badges for the different classifications of providers.RATIONALE: Whereas Resolution 15-11 encompassed a broad range of topics and used terminology that left the Committee unsure of the author’s intent, Resolution 50-11 defines credentials and is limited to identification requirements within health system facilities. The Committee preferred this resolution as it addresses an important aspect of transparency and disclosure in health care settings. And while the Committee had some reservations about how much this would improve confusion among patients and reducing improper communication by lesser trained professionals, the Committee believes that the patients should have the right to know the type of professional treating them.
Fiscal Note: NULL
Resolution: View PDF for Clear Identification of Health Worker Position/Title with ID Tags