Which of the following is considered a must-have for hospitals?

A licensed and organized physician staff is essential for hospitals because they are responsible for delivering medical care to patients, ensuring that services are safe, effective, and properly executed. This requirement is foundational to the functioning of healthcare systems, as the quality of patient care largely depends on the qualifications, expertise, and organizational structure of the medical staff. Licensed physicians provide the necessary oversight and clinical judgment to navigate patient needs and complex medical situations, while an organized staff structure helps streamline operations within the hospital, ensuring that appropriate care is administered efficiently and effectively.

In contrast, unlimited financial resources are impractical and not considered a realistic expectation; even the most funded institutions must manage costs. Governance by a board of unpaid volunteers, while beneficial in some contexts, does not inherently ensure the operational efficiency or medical oversight needed in a hospital setting. Lastly, a preference for alternative medicine does not align with the broad aim of hospitals to provide evidence-based medical care, which generally relies on conventional medical practices supported by extensive research. Thus, having a licensed and organized physician staff stands out as a critical requirement for a hospital’s ability to function effectively and meet patient needs.