Secrets from other Providers:

Here are some secrets that other Providers have share with us about making the credentialing process less stressful all around:

1. They store their documents electronically.

By scanning and consolidating all your documentation into an electronic format and storing it on an external drive, you can literally take your information with you everywhere. If you’re on another assignment away from home, you’ll be able to send from the hotel business center. If you’re on vacation, you can find the nearest Wi-Fi café and email from there.

2. They Keep clear and accurate record of all past hospital affiliations and permanent positions.

Just saying Locum Tenens assignment is not good enough. You should track the name of the places you’ve worked, the dates you were there, the address, the phone/fax number, and references (such as whom you reported to and worked with). Document any gaps in your work history and provide explanation as to what you were doing during that time. Keep a list of licenses (both current and in active) and the license numbers. Also be prepared to document your malpractice insurance coverage.

3. Line Up Extra References. Most facilities will ask for three employment references.

However, it is best to be prepared and offer up at least twice that number. Count on at least one or two of them being out of town or otherwise unavailable. Again, when the time comes for reference checking the process moves very quickly and a list of six will likely yield results 75 percent faster than the list of the three required. Often hospital medical staff offices will verify all of your past employment including your locum tenens assignments. Be proactive and maintain good relationships you’re your past employers to be sure you know they will respond to these verifications positively. Again if you know they will document poor behavior or an involuntary termination, provide that information along with your statement at the time you begin the credentialing process with us.

4. Do not try to withhold any malpractice, license, criminal, and/or disciplinary issues.

It’s best to be upfront so that we can help you minimize any damage. If these factors are disclosed up front, along with a solid, written explanation, we can often save the assignment. Hiding information in this age of mega-electronic databases surely means you will not only lose this assignment, but burn bridges forever with the staffing agency and even the hospital trying to assist with your credentialing.

Any questions about credentialing, feel free to contact your recruiter. Remember, we are here to help!

4. Obtain Your DEA

Most of our clients are now requiring our providers to have a DEA. This process can take up to six weeks and without an active one, you could miss out on that otherwise perfect opportunity. As Advanced Practice Professionals can work more and more independently, we also expect this requirement will become even more increasingly common. If you already have a DEA, make sure you keep it active based upon your states requirements. If you are unable to keep it active because you aren’t employed or for any other reason, be sure to tell your recruiter upon considering your first assignment with us. Our CVO can assist you in getting it renewed, and as always, earlier is better to assure you meet the client’s requirements and start your assignment on time.