The legal perspective. How much process is due?

The essentials of a fair due process proceeding are a written statement of the charges; timely notice of hearing; a fair hearing before a deciding board; a right to produce evidence; a decision based on "substantial evidence" produced at the hearing; and a right to counsel under certain circumstances. Although a physician is entitled to a hearing in the event of denial of staff appointment or the total revocation or suspension of privileges, the hospital should have the prerogative to monitor a physicians's performance without triggering all of the due process safeguards.