If a physician’s office staff identifies the physician, what must still occur according to policy?

When a physician's office staff identifies the physician, it's crucial to adhere to policies that ensure proper verification of the physician's credentials. Requesting to see the state medical license is essential in this context. This action confirms that the individual practicing medicine is indeed properly licensed and authorized to provide medical care in that state. It also serves as a safeguard to prevent unauthorized individuals from attempting to impersonate a physician.

Reliance solely on verbal confirmation may not suffice, as it lacks the reliability and permanence of documented evidence. Similarly, while confirmation from the hospital might also be valuable, the immediate and primary requirement is to verify the individual's medical license directly. The state medical license serves as the foundational proof of the physician's identity and qualifications, making this step a critical component in maintaining the integrity and safety of medical practice.