Endorsement and Credentialing: Definitions of Common Terms Credentials An individuals documented professional history, including detailed educational and licensing records, practice and CE history, disciplinary actions, liability insurance status, and health profile. Credentialing The process of assembling an individuals credentials. Credentials Verification The process of determining the accuracy of an individuals credentials. Endorsement The determination of the equivalency of an applicants' credentials to some or all of a states' licensure standards. Reciprocity A relationship that exists between two or more State Boards of Optometry when they determine that their licensure standards are equivalent or nearly equivalent, and enter into a contractual agreement granting licenses to applicants from one another's state. Privileging The process of determining an individuals scope of practice based on an individuals credentials and on a defined set of guidelines. Competency The appropriate application of knowledge and performance skill in patient care, procedural applicability and decision making, consistent with the profession's standard of care and the patient's health, welfare and safety. Continuing Competency The maintenance of the appropriate level of knowledge and skills necessary to meet the current standard of care.