What is the National Practitioner Data Bank (NPDB)?

• A. Web-based repository of rumors about clinicians
• B. Database of medical licenses
• C. Web-based repository of reports containing information on medical malpractice payments and certain adverse actions related to healthcare providers
• D. Manual file cabinet with patient records

Answer: (C)

The National Practitioner Data Bank is a web-based repository that collects and makes available reports about medical malpractice payments and certain adverse actions related to healthcare practitioners. These reports come from sources such as malpractice insurers (payments) and licensing boards, hospitals, professional societies, and government agencies, and they cover actions like licensure restrictions, probation, suspension or revocation of clinical privileges, and other disciplinary measures. The NPDB is used in credentialing and licensure processes to help ensure patient safety by providing a centralized source of credible information about practitioners. It is not a database of rumors, not a database of medical licenses, and it does not contain patient records or physical file cabinets.