Final answer:
Correct Answer is C) .The healthcare facility must query the Provider Credentialing database to verify Dr. Smith's qualifications when he applies for medical staff privileges.
Step-by-step explanation:
When Dr. Smith applies for medical staff privileges, the healthcare facility must query the Provider Credentialing database. This database contains important information regarding a provider's qualifications, such as education, training, residency, licenses, and any certification from specialty boards. Querying this database ensures that healthcare facilities uphold high standards of care by verifying the credentials of the practitioners they hire. The healthcare facility must query the Provider credentialing database when Dr. Smith has applied for medical staff privileges. This database contains information about the credentials and qualifications of healthcare providers. It helps the facility ensure that Dr. Smith meets the necessary requirements and standards to be granted medical staff privileges.