Resources / Credentialing

How Long Does Provider Credentialing Take?

Credentialing is one of the most common sources of delayed revenue for new providers and expanding practices. The timeline is rarely as short as the first estimate you hear.

Typical Timelines

• Medicare — often 30–90 days once a clean application is submitted, though PECOS and state-specific steps can add time.
• Commercial payers — commonly 60–120 days. Some plans take longer, especially if they require panel review or have limited network openings.
• Medicaid — varies widely by state; 60–180 days is not unusual.

What Usually Slows Credentialing Down

• Incomplete or inconsistent application data (licenses, work history, malpractice coverage).
• Missing CAQH profile updates or attestations.
• Hospital privileges or affiliation letters that are delayed.
• Payer requests for additional information that sit unanswered.
• Starting the process only after the provider has already begun seeing patients.

Practical Ways to Reduce Delays

1. Start credentialing as soon as the hire or contract is confirmed — not after the start date.
2. Keep CAQH current and re-attest on schedule.
3. Track every application with dates and follow-up reminders.
4. Respond to payer requests within a few business days.
5. Confirm effective dates in writing before billing that payer.

Many practices hand the entire credentialing process to their billing partner so internal staff are not stuck chasing paperwork while also managing day-to-day operations.