Navigating the Council for Affordable Quality Healthcare or CAQH credentialing database can be a daunting task for providers and their staff. However, with proper instruction, it can become an efficient process saving you time and money. CAQH allows healthcare providers to submit their professional and practice information all in one platform and is designed to simplify healthcare administration. Here are a few tips for a smooth CAQH application process:
#1 Gather the Information and Documents You’ll Need
Ensure you have all the required documents, such as education credentials, work history for the last five years, at least three professional references, professional license, malpractice insurance, DEA certificate, if applicable, National Provider Identifier, tax identification number, and practice information.
#2 Maintain Accurate and Complete Information
Being consistent with the use of your legal business name, correct spelling and proper formatting is extremely important. Review all entries for errors before attesting to the accuracy of the information as any discrepancies may result in delay or denial of your application.
#3. Submit Your Documentation
Once the application is complete and you have attested to the information submitted you will be required to attach a copy of your state’s authorization document, professional license, and malpractice insurance. Once this step has been completed, CAQH will review your data and supporting documents for final approval.
It is important to maintain your CAQH attestation and keep it up to date. Remember to update your information whenever there are changes to your professional or practice status. You are required to attest to your information every 120 days or any time you have updated your information. Lack of attestation can lead to inaccurate information being reported to insurance plans and/or being dropped from the insurance panels.
You can do this on your own, and leveraging our comprehensive guidebook, Credentialing 101 can help walk you through the process. Additionally, we have expert insurance navigators standing by to do this for you, simply book an appointment with us today! MedTrust Provider Advocates has been helping providers just like you for over 20 years and we’d love to help you too.
