What does a Credentialing Specialist do?
Credentialing Specialists provide administrative support in healthcare settings. Their job is to verify that all medical staff members’ credentials and licenses are valid and up to date. They operate maintain databases and advise staff members on renewal dates for licenses and credentials to help ensure they can continue to work legally without lapses.
Credentialing Specialists often work in medical administrative offices or hybrid/work-from-home settings. They usually work independently unless they oversee other staff members, such as Credentialing Coordinators. They must research to ensure they’re up to date on medical policy, local licensing and certification requirements.
Credentialing Specialist skills and qualifications
A successful Credentialing Specialist should possess these various prerequisite skills and qualifications needed to effectively perform job duties and tasks:
- Ability to meet strict deadlines
- Attention to detail
- Good communication skills
- Knowledgeable in policies, laws and procedures
- Strong computer skills
- Proficiency in database management (if applicable)
- Willingness to work as a team player
- Good organizational skills
Credentialing Specialist experience requirements
A Credentialing Specialist’s experience requirements depend on whether an employer or hiring manager is looking for entry-level or experienced candidates. Entry-level Credentialing Specialists typically receive on-the-job training and must have at least a high school diploma or GED equivalent and computer experience. In some cases, employers may hire entry-level applicants as Credentialing Coordinators with the opportunity to move up into specialist positions. In this scenario, a coordinator may work under a specialist to gain skills and experience.
For advanced positions, applicants typically need two to three years of previous employment in medical administration or as a Credentialing Specialist and a strong knowledge of data systems. Credentialing Specialists must often maintain large databases containing confidential employee information, so they may need previous experience creating databases and/or inputting data (data entry).
Credentialing Specialist education and training requirements
A Credentialing Specialist usually needs a high school diploma or equivalent, along with an associate degree in healthcare or business administration. In some situations, employers may hire entry-level Credentialing Specialists and allow them to receive on-the-job training and work while earning their degrees and/or certifications.
While not a hard requirement for every Credentialing Specialist job, some employers prefer that potential candidates hold Certified Provider Credentialing Specialist (CPCS) certifications. To qualify for the CPCS exam, an applicant must have at least three years of experience in medical services working for the same employer for at least 12 consecutive months.
Credentialing Specialist salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a Credentialing Specialist is $40,181. It’s important to note that this is an average, and specific salary amounts can vary based on geographical location, company preferences and an individual’s overall experience.
Credentialing Specialist salary expectations
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Common salary:
24.90 HOURLY -
Typical salaries range from
9.45 -47.55 HOURLY - Find more information on Indeed Salaries
*Indeed data –
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Credentialing Specialist job description FAQs
Here are some common frequently asked questions pertaining to Credentialing Specialist job positions:
What’s the difference between a Credentialing Specialist and a Credentialing Coordinator?
The main difference between a Credentialing Specialist and a Credentialing Coordinator is seniority. Both positions generally have similar work experience and training, but a specialist is an advanced position that often requires two to three years of experience and an additional Credentialing Specialist certification.
How much does the CPCS exam cost?
A CPCS exam application costs $400 for National Association Medical Staff Services (NAMSS) members and $525 for nonmembers. Single recertification testing costs $175 for members and $325 for nonmembers, and dual certificant recertifications cost $200 for members and $350 for nonmembers.
What should you look for in a Credentialing Specialist resume?
When reviewing a Credentialing Specialist resume, look for past medical administration or business administration experience, along with education history. Also, look for certifications. In some cases, employers require all Credentialing Specialists hold specialist certifications through the National Association of Medical Staff Services (NAMSS), while others may prefer entry-level candidates.
Why is a Credentialing Specialist important?
Credentialing Specialists are highly essential in the healthcare industry because they’re responsible for verifying that physicians, nurses and other medical personnel have the appropriate licensing to work in their fields. They also ensure facilities comply with and follow all state and federal guidelines.
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