Hongsathavij v Qeen of Angels establishes which principle about governance of credentialing decisions?

• A. Governing Body is ultimate authority
• B. Board may not overturn committee decisions
• C. Hearing committees are final
• D. Call panel membership does not affect credentialing

Answer: (A)

The main idea is that the governing body has the ultimate authority over credentialing decisions. Hongsathavij v Queen of Angels reinforces that while medical staff committees and hearing panels handle evaluations, hearings, and recommendations, they operate within a framework set by the organization’s bylaws and policies. The governing body bears the final responsibility to approve, deny, or modify credentialing actions to ensure consistency with standards, due process, and organizational goals. This means decisions from committees and panels aren’t final on their own—the board can review and, if needed, overturn or adjust them to align with policy and safety considerations. The other possibilities miss this top-level control, implying finality or independence at lower levels, which the case does not support.