3 TIPS for successful credentialing

Getting credentialed with insurance companies, both public and private, is a crucial first step in building a private practice. But it can take FOREVER, especially when you're itching to get started

Assuming everything goes perfectly, credentialing can take anywhere from 60 to 120 days.

"Time is money," said Laura Murdock, CEO of bonmente management. "If you get stuck in the credentialing process for months because one number was out of place, you're losing money."

Using an experienced credentialing agency like bonmente management can save you months of time, which lets you start making money sooner. 

Murdock, who has been credentialing providers for more than 25 years, is an expert at navigating the process efficiently and correctly. Here are her three musts to ensure successful and timely credentialing. 

1. Keep copies.

Insurance companies make mistakes even if you don't. If they lose a copy of a document or are missing a signature on something and you don't have a duplicate, you've lost a month. Keep copies of everything and know where they are.

Electronic copies are ideal, especially since most applications are electronic and require you to submit forms through a portal or email. Many apps exist to scan documents using your phone. Keep copies and save yourself from a month long headache.

2. Follow up.

Whew, the application is submitted. Not it's time to follow up with the insurance companies... each one of them. Call to make sure they've received everything, and ask if they see any obvious omissions. Call again to check on the status of the credentialing. Follow up, follow up again, and keep following up until the process is completed and you are con each panel.

This is definitely a time to be a squeaky wheel, respectfully. Should the insurance company find an error or omission on your application, you don't want to wait for them to call you. You could add six months to the process with that type of back -and-forth. Instead, be proactive and follow up. 

3. Get help from the pros.

You don't have to waste away in limbo. Insurance is impossible, and that's why companies like bonmente management have become experts at credentialing and contracting with insurance companies. 

"Professionals in this field deliberately and strategically cultivate relationships with insurance representatives," said Murdock. "Regardless of the company -- and there are hundreds of insurance companies -- we know someone who can help with this process. Much like a provider could call the cell phone of a medical colleague, our relationships bring value to our clients and expedite credentialing." 

Credentialing isn't necessarily hard, but the tediousness of it can make it seem so. To be successful you must be thorough, accurate, and persistent -- with each application. That attention to detail and commitment to follow up can save you months of time, and that means you can make more money sooner.

Request a credentialing consultation here.