Locum tenens assignments have been gaining popularity recently as healthcare providers look for more flexibility and variety in their careers. However, with this rise in demand for locum tenens physicians come questions about the requirements for working as one. One common question is whether or not locum tenens providers need to be credentialed to practice. In this blog post, we will explore what the locum tenens credentialing process entails and examine whether or not you must complete the process. We will also look at the benefits of being credentialed and how it can impact your career as a locum. Whether you are a seasoned locum tenens physician or just starting, understanding the process of credentialing is vital to your success in this growing field. What is Credentialing? Credentialing is the process by which healthcare professionals are evaluated and verified to ensure they meet certain standards of practice and qualifications. It is a way for healthcare providers to demonstrate their competence and expertise in a particular practice area. How Credentialing Impacts Patient Care Credentialing is vital to healthcare facilities because it helps them to ensure that patients receive high-quality care from qualified professionals. By verifying a provider’s credentials, healthcare organizations can be confident that the providers they hire are competent to provide care. Additionally, credentialing can help a healthcare organization protect patients from unqualified or incompetent providers who could potentially harm them. How Credentialing Impacts Providers In addition to being essential for healthcare organizations and patients, credentialing can benefit healthcare providers. For example, credentialed providers may have access to more job opportunities or earning potential. It can also provide a sense of professional pride and accomplishment for providers who have worked hard to earn their credentials. Credentialing Locum Tenens Providers Locum tenens credentialing can be a rewarding accomplishment for locum tenens physicians. It can also help you in your search for a locum tenens assignment. Keep reading to learn what to expect from the thorough credentialing process. Application and Verification Process Locum tenens credentialing typically begins with an application and documentation process. As a provider, you must submit various credentialing documents, including your current resume, medical school diploma and license, board certification, malpractice insurance information, and other relevant credentials. If you received your education internationally, you will likely need to provide your Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) certification and proof of permanent resident status. Once the completed application is received, your locum tenens credentialing specialists will begin the primary source verification process. This may involve contacting your professional references, verifying your education and training, and checking your work history. The verification process can take several weeks to complete, depending on the complexity of your background. Background Checks and Drug Screens In addition to verifying a provider’s qualifications, locum tenens agencies typically require background checks and drug screens. These checks ensure that you have no criminal history, malpractice claims, or drug abuse issues that could impact your ability to provide safe and effective patient care. A good agency will keep you informed on the decisions of the locum tenens credentialing team. Even minor concerns may prevent you from receiving your credentials. Privileging After your credentials have been verified, you may be granted privileges at the healthcare facilities where you will be working. Privileging is the process of giving a provider permission to practice in a specific area of medicine at a particular healthcare facility. The privileging process typically involves a review of the provider’s credentials by the facility’s medical staff and may include an interview or additional documentation. Due to the nature of locum tenens jobs, a healthcare facility may grant you temporary privileges or privileges you can access...