Which statement defines PSV according to accreditation?

Which statement defines PSV according to accreditation?

• A. PSV should be obtained through a secure electronic communication, approved website, or by phone contact with the primary source
• B. PSV is obtained via mail only
• C. PSV is obtained only in person
• D. PSV is optional for credentials

Answer: (A)

Primary Source Verification (PSV) is the process of confirming credentials directly with the actual source, such as licensing boards, schools, or certifying bodies. Accreditation standards require PSV to be obtained through secure electronic verification, an approved verification website, or by directly contacting the primary source by phone. This ensures the information is authentic, verifiable, and auditable, reducing the risk of tampered or false records. Verification by mail only or in-person verification does not meet these secure, verifiable channels, and PSV is considered a required part of credentialing, not optional.

Primary Source Verification (PSV) is the process of confirming credentials directly with the actual source, such as licensing boards, schools, or certifying bodies. Accreditation standards require PSV to be obtained through secure electronic verification, an approved verification website, or by directly contacting the primary source by phone. This ensures the information is authentic, verifiable, and auditable, reducing the risk of tampered or false records. Verification by mail only or in-person verification does not meet these secure, verifiable channels, and PSV is considered a required part of credentialing, not optional.