Credentialing is one of the most important procedures that needs to be completed in order to get verified as an authentic healthcare provider. But did you know that most of the credentialing forms remain incomplete due to errors and re-submissions? The whole process is extremely tiresome with a significant load of paperwork to be completed and deadlines to be met. As a healthcare provider, it can get very difficult for you to prioritize your patient’s health if you have to constantly keep worrying about the legal work to be completed.
A credentialing software takes over the task of completing your necessary applications and storing all your documents. They are designed with several special features that save your precious time. But before investing into a credentialing software, you should thoroughly read about the features that they provide to know which will suit you best.
Read on to know which are the must-have features in a credentialing software that you should keep an eye on.
1.Cloud based Storage Facility:
Cloud storage facility is the need of the hour which easily stores all your critical documents and provides easy access to you. Keep an eye on a credentialing software which provides next generation cloud storage. This updated feature helps to congregate and store all your data in an error-free way, avoiding the time consumed to rectify human errors caused in traditional provider management systems.
2.Security:
The credentialing software must adhere to all legal compliance’s required to store your critical data securely. Look for the one which is transparent in all its security protocols and understands how important the documents are to you. The top compliant software companies are clear about their privacy policy.
Read about their encryption policy and the methods they use for surveillance. 24/7 surveillance with protection against malware, spyware or Trojans is encouraged. The software you choose should have clear definitions of data confidentiality and how they use your data for further processing. Security should be ensured at all costs and the company policy should agree to the same in their terms of use.
3.Workflow Automation:
Any credentialing is not complete without a huge load of paper work and subsequent applications. Automated form filling feature in your credentialing software will make the process smooth for you. Once you log in all your details and supporting documents the first time, the software should be able to retrieve the data from the repository and help in automated applications. This saves a lot of energy for a healthcare provider who otherwise has to fill in the same details multiple times for different forms. This feature also significantly reduces the human error caused in manual handling of paperwork.
4.Expiration Alerts:
Certain applications need refilling and re-verification from time to time. But with so much on your plate already, it is practically impossible for you to remember the deadlines for each of the certifications. The credentialing software will make it easy for you by sending you expiration alerts regularly till your fresh documents are put in the system.
You should also know that since credentialing takes a while to get completed, you should keep your documents ready well in advance of the expiry date to avoid any delays. Your software should have the feature of sending you alerts with a good amount of time in hand, preferably 4 to 6 weeks, so that you can plan your work accordingly while avoiding any delays and denials.
5.E-Signature:
No application is completed without the signature of the applicant. However, in case of the credentialing process, there are too many forms to be filled out and submitted in due time. If you still have to download PDFs, sign, scan and send back copies, then what is the use of having a dedicated software? Look for a credentialing software that provides you with e-signature support. It is a simple and time saving feature where you can zip through the application and sign it instantly, skipping all the tiring steps in between.
6.Customer Support:
Providing customer support is essential for any credentialing software since it deals with some of the most valuable documents of your life which directly affects your work. Most of the top rated software companies ensure that no error pops up in between operations, since they undergo multiple tests. However, in case you face any issue with the software, you should be able to contact a support executive 24/7. Look for a credentialing software which assures you a professional executive to take care of any problems you might encounter when using your system.
7.Multiple Network Plans:
A healthcare credentialing software is aimed at making the paperwork easier for all kinds of healthcare providers. From hospitals to small practice groups, doctors to clinics, pharmacies to medical billing companies; it should be able to cater to the needs of all in the healthcare industry. However, the needs of all these beneficiaries are different and cannot be clubbed in a “one-size fits all” program. Certain software offer multiple network plans for different kinds of requirements. One can easily look into the various features offered by each plan and make an informed decision on which plan will suit them best. This will also prove to be cost effective for the user since they only have to pay for the features that they require.
Final Thoughts
Credentialing software can make a huge difference in the work life of a healthcare provider. With most of the traditional systems going digital, there is no place for error-prone work. Proper credentialing is the key to improved patient management since it serves as a proof to your authenticity. With global trends changing drastically in the coming decade, it is imperative to upgrade yourself to the latest technology to stay ahead in the field.
Hope this blog helped you to study the features of a credentialing software. For suggestions, shoot your questions below and we will try to answer if relevant to the topic. For more queries and updates on healthcare, please subscribe to our blog.