You accepted a Federal Healthcare job. Before you can start, the facility needs to verify your credentials.
That process can involve several steps, from confirming your license and education to checking your work history and professional references. Understanding what happens during credentialing can help you know what to expect and what you may need to provide along the way.
What Credentialing Means
The U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) defines credentialing and privileging as “the process of verifying that a provider has the appropriate qualifications and abilities to deliver specific health care services.”1
Before you can begin working, the hiring facility verifies your qualifications to ensure you meet its clinical standards. The review typically includes your:
- Professional license
- Education
- Residency or internship
- Certifications
- Work history
- Professional references
- Malpractice and disciplinary history
The facility verifies each item directly with the original source. For example, your licensing board may confirm that your license is active, while a former employer may verify your work history. Your school or certification organization may also need to confirm your education or credentials.
Because several organizations may be involved, the facility coordinates verification across multiple sources. Each organization has its own process for responding to verification requests. Federal Healthcare facilities complete these checks before providers begin work to help protect patient safety and ensure they meet the required qualifications.
What You Can Do While You Wait
Although much of the process happens behind the scenes, you can still help keep your application moving.
Respond quickly to document requests. Returning paperwork promptly helps prevent unnecessary delays. If the credentialing team asks you to complete a form, provide an updated license, or clarify information in your file, respond as soon as you can.
Keep your contact information current. Check your email and phone regularly so you do not miss an important request. If your contact information changes during the process, let your recruiter know right away.
Keep your documents organized. Have copies of your license, certifications, diplomas, and other required records ready if someone requests them. Keeping these documents together makes it easier to respond when the credentialing team needs additional information.
Stay in touch with your recruiter. You do not need to check in every few days, but regular communication can help you understand where your application stands and whether the facility needs anything else from you.
Stay Informed Throughout the Process
Every Federal Healthcare facility follows its own credentialing process. Your recruiter can help you understand where your application stands, what comes next, and whether the facility needs anything else from you.
Matrix Providers tracks every candidate’s credentialing progress from start to finish. If you have questions about your application, our recruiters can explain what steps are complete, what still needs to happen, and what you can expect next.
If you are already in the credentialing process, connect with a recruiter through Match Point for an update. If you are exploring a Federal Healthcare career, apply today and work with a team that keeps you informed from day one.
Reference
- United States Government Accountability Office. Military Health Care: Improved Procedures and Monitoring Needed to Ensure Provider Qualifications and Competence. GAO-22-104668, 11 Aug. 2022, www.gao.gov/products/gao-22-104668.
