03 Nov Understanding Medical Licensing & Credentialing
For physicians seeking locum tenens positions in other states, the licensing and credentialing process can seem lengthy and cumbersome. Fortunately, there are ways to streamline the endeavor for those who want to enjoy the benefits of a locum tenens career.
Use these tips to simplify and speed up the licensing and credentialing process:
Organize your documents
It’s challenging to prioritize paperwork when you’re working as a physician. However, most boards require copies of all certificates, transcripts, and other records, so it pays to have these materials up to date, in a central location, and ready for review. Consider scanning and storing them in a cloud for easy access. Document requirements vary state-to-state but will include items like these:
· Educational transcripts and diplomas
· Proof of training, including residency and fellowship
· Dates of employment, graduation, training, and exam attempts
· Proof of continuing education
· Immunization records
· Driver’s License/Government Issued ID
· DEA certificates
· Copies of state licensures
Apply for expedited licensure through the IMLC
If you’re eligible, you can apply for expedited licensure through the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact. The Compact was created to increase access to healthcare, particularly in rural and underserved areas, and significantly shortens and streamlines the state licensure process for many physicians by using the information on file from an existing license. If you’re approved, you can apply for additional licenses in other states within the IMLC Compact. The Compact includes 30 states (as of this post’s publish date), and about 80% of physicians meet the criteria for licensure.
Apply for Federation Credentials Verification Service
Physicians who complete this process establish a “permanent, lifetime portfolio of primary-source verified credentials.” Although it is only required by 15 state licensing boards, nearly all medical boards accept FCVS as primary source verification. The average processing time is 45 days, but the length of time can be influenced by the responsiveness of the physician submitting forms.
Allow adequate processing time
Some state medical boards can take up to 6 months for licensing—and that’s with the timely submission of forms and documents. However, the average time frame is much shorter. Check the state board’s website or give them a call for an estimated timeframe.
Stay on top of the details
Medical licensing is an exacting process that requires a great deal of information and communication. Extensive follow-up and verification are often necessary. Fill out forms completely and accurately and respond to all requests for supplemental information as quickly as possible. Resolving red flags as they occur will create a faster process.
A word on credentialing
Every healthcare facility hiring locum tenens will need to confirm your identity and qualifications before your first day on the job. This is another reason it’s handy to have all relevant documents and references stored in one place and easily accessible for your next assignment.
Don’t let a little paperwork keep you from a fulfilling career as a locum tenens physician! We know you’re busy helping people live better lives, and that’s why Annashae provides medical licensing and credentialing support to our clinicians. Enjoy flexible scheduling, new environments, various medical settings while we worry about the forms. Contact us today.