What is the general rule about the practice of podiatry in hospitals or inpatient settings in Massachusetts?

• A. Podiatrists may not work in hospital settings.
• B. Podiatrists must own the hospital.
• C. Podiatrists may practice in hospital settings under hospital privileges and in accordance with hospital policies and applicable laws.
• D. Podiatrists require a separate hospital license.

Answer: (C)

In Massachusetts, a licensed podiatrist may practice in hospital or inpatient settings by obtaining hospital privileges through the hospital’s medical staff credentialing process. These privileges authorize specific clinical activities—admitting, diagnosing, treating, and performing procedures—within the hospital, but only within the scope defined by the granted privileges. The podiatrist must operate in accordance with the hospital’s bylaws, policies, and procedures, as well as applicable state and federal laws. There is no separate hospital license required for the individual podiatrist; the hospital itself is licensed, and clinicians work under that license through privileges. Ownership of the hospital is not a requirement.