Five Credentialing Tips

Are you at the beginning stages of credentialing? The credentialing process can seem overwhelming but don’t lose heart, many people have been through the process and we’ve all lived to tell about it, or fuss about it.

Keep in mind that just a few things can help make the process much more smooth and sometimes even faster. Read below for five tips to help with your credentialing process.

1)    Be organized

Create a spreadsheet or find a way to keep track of what you have done and what you have submitted. Having clear records and documentation will help you out in the long run!

2)    Make sure all documents and numbers are correct

Although this sounds like common sense, sometimes therapists (me included) get super busy with our practice that we misplace important information. This happens especially with numbers that are rarely used, such as ones NPI number. Always keep track of your NPI number, License number, Expiration dates, Updated Malpractice Insurance, and your CAQH number. It also doesn’t hurt to have a document detailing your CE’s you have accumulated between renewal periods.

3)    Call all insurance / EAP companies weekly

You do not want to pester them, but you do want to make sure all documents have been received and are completed (this is where your spreadsheet in #2 comes in handy).

Make it a priority to make contact with ALL insurance/EAP panels with which we are working on the credentialing process WEEKLY.  You will want to stay in contact until you receive your final acceptance letter with an official start date.

4)    Continue your marketing strategies and daily responsibilities

Continue your marketing efforts.  Referrals don’t just happen, you have to earn them through effective networking and marketing. Don’t allow yourself to think that just being credentialed will fill your calendar.

5). Commit to the process

Some therapists will start the process but then quit for one reason or another. If you’re going to start this journey, be sure and make a personal commitment to see it through.

I hope you can use these 5 tips for credentialing. As always, if we can do anything to help you out please feel free to reach out to us! We are here to help!

Written by J. Todd Baker, Ph.D., LPC-S, BCN
Partner / Co-founder