It can be tempting to put off a complicated and time-consuming process like credentialing, but that is the last thing you should do!
Here are 4 reasons to start the credentialing process TODAY:
#1. The credentialing process usually takes longer than expected.
Credentialing can take up to 180 days, but generally the process takes 90-120 days, and contracting with payers can take 60-90 days (and any of these timelines may be extended due to delays caused by the current pandemic). It’s best to be as prepared as possible on your end so that you can make up for and anticipate delays from insurance companies or other entities involved.
For example, primary source verification must be completed by validating credentials for each provider through direct contact with the person or organization that originally issued each credential.
Since the credentialing process requires reaching out to numerous different contacts and following up with those who fail to respond quickly, it’s important to allot plenty of time to the work. The usual time a person will dedicate to each application is 7 to 9 hours from submission to effective date.
#2. Begin practicing and billing payers ASAP.
Any delays in the credentialing process can lead to postponements in employment start dates and/or reimbursement setbacks. Patients also are highly unlikely to seek care from an out-of-network provider.
Accurate and timely credentialing and contracting with payers will help you both prevent claim denials and attract more patients.
#3. Reduce holiday stress.
Don’t use the holidays as an excuse to stall the credentialing process. Start now, BEFORE the holidays, so you can enjoy them without any looming credentialing tasks hanging over your head.
This past year has been challenging for everyone, especially those in the healthcare field. Why not outsource credentialing to help with relieving provider stress and preventing clinician burnout?
#4. Set yourself up for success in the new year.
Getting started now can make a huge difference to the success of your practice in 2021. The longer you wait on credentialing and payer enrollment tasks, the more you’ll cut into next year’s revenue and reimbursement. Plus, you may be setting yourself up for a lot of extra work that will be needed to resubmit any denied claims that could result from credentialing and payer enrollment holdups.
Use what’s left of 2020 to start the credentialing process so that you can spend the new year helping patients and growing your practice, rather than dealing with credentialing and reimbursement issues.
Start the Credentialing Process with EligibilityOne
Starting the credentialing process can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be!
EligibilityOne removes the hassle by managing all provider credentialing and provider enrollment work for you. This includes completing, submitting, and monitoring all applications related to credentialing and provider enrollment in commercial insurance plans and Medicare and Medicaid, obtaining hospital privileges, and CAQH registration.
Contact us TODAY to start the credentialing process right away!
By Stephanie Salmich
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