Credentialing Consulting Services: What Every Healthcare Provider Should Know

Bonnie Flom • October 17, 2024

Do you also feel like credentialing paperwork is a never-ending maze? With us, many healthcare providers have shared this frustration. We understand that constant juggling of forms, regulations, and deadlines can be overwhelming and take time away from patient care. 

This is where credentialing consulting services come in. Imagine having experts who can tackle the paperwork and compliance issues, freeing you to focus on what you do best—caring for your patients.


This blog will tell you how hiring credentialing service providers can make a significant difference.


What Are Credentialing Consulting Services?


Credentialing consulting services are specialized solutions designed to assist in managing the complex process of verifying and maintaining credentials. The process involves several critical components:


Initial Credentialing: When a new provider joins any medical practice, credentialing consultants handle the intricate application process. This includes gathering and submitting necessary documentation, and ensuring that all requirements are met to get approved.

Ongoing Maintenance: Credentialing doesn’t stop once the initial approval is granted. Consultants keep track of expiration dates, renewals, and any changes in regulations or insurance policies to ensure that credentials remain valid and up-to-date.

Verification: Credentialing experts verify that all documents are accurate and comply with current standards. This involves checking certifications, licenses, and qualifications to prevent any issues that might arise from discrepancies or outdated information.


Though credentialing services are straightforward, there are various misconceptions that people have. Let us debunk a few of them!


Common Myths We Have Encountered!


Myth 1: “Credentialing is a One-Time Task.”

  • Reality: Credentialing is an ongoing process that requires regular updates and compliance checks. Maintaining accurate and current credentials is essential for continued practice and reimbursement.

Myth 2: “Consulting Services are Only for Large Practices.”

  • Reality: Credentialing services are beneficial for practices of all sizes. Even smaller practices can greatly benefit from professional support to manage credentialing efficiently.

Myth 3: “Credentialing Consulting is Too Expensive.”

  • Reality: While there is a cost associated with credentialing consulting, it is an investment that can save money in the long run. The benefits of preventing costly errors and delays often outweigh the initial costs.


What Makes Us Stand Out?


Billing Buddies® is a leading provider of credentialing consulting services. We offer numerous advantages that set us apart:


  • Expert Team: The team at Billing Buddies® consists of highly skilled credentialing specialists with extensive experience. We handle the complexities of credentialing with precision and efficiency.
  • Tailored Solutions: Understanding that every practice is unique, we provide customized credentialing solutions that are specifically designed to address different needs.
  • Advanced Technology: Billing Buddies® relies on Office Ally, a trusted practice management software and clearinghouse known for its efficiency. Office Ally enhances the credentialing process by streamlining operations and ensuring smooth interactions with payers.
  • Continuous Support: Beyond initial credentialing, Billing Buddies® offers ongoing support to address any issues that may arise. This commitment to keeping your credentials up-to-date ensures that your practice remains compliant and efficient.


Still confused?


We have a long history of client satisfaction! Trust us because we have:


  • Proven Track Record: we have a long history of successfully managing credentialing for a wide range of healthcare providers. Our proven expertise and reliability make us a trusted partner in credentialing.
  • Client-Centric Approach: we use a client-focused approach, working closely with them to understand their specific needs and provide solutions that align with the practice’s goals.
  • Efficiency and Accuracy: By leveraging advanced tools and expert knowledge, Billing Buddies® ensures that our credentialing is managed efficiently and accurately, reducing the risk of errors and improving overall practice performance.


Let us connect!


Credentialing consulting services can revolutionize how businesses manage their credentialing processes. With the expertise and support of Billing Buddies®, you can alleviate the burden of paperwork and compliance. Connect today to book a consultation and get started!


By Bonnie Flom April 21, 2025
Fact: ARHMS providers across Minnesota – especially in Minneapolis – are spending more hours than ever on billing, and it’s affecting client care. Between compliance rules, rejected claims, and slow payments, many teams are overwhelmed. But what if ARHMS billing didn’t have to be a full-time job? Table of Contents: ● The Real Problem with ARHMS Billing Today ● What Makes ARHMS Billing in Minneapolis Especially Challenging ● How Outsourcing Isn’t Just Easier — It’s Smarter ● What Billing Buddies Does Differently ● Quick Comparison: DIY Billing vs. Partnering with Billing Buddies ● Final Word + How to Connect The Real Problem with ARHMS Billing Today Let’s be real: ARHMS billing is no longer just about submitting claims. It’s about understanding state-specific codes, documenting every move correctly, and constantly adjusting to DHS updates. If you're still relying on manual methods or a stretched-thin team, the odds of losing revenue go up fast. What Makes ARHMS Billing in Minneapolis Especially Challenging? Minneapolis is fast-paced, and so is the demand for mental health and habilitation support. But here’s the kicker — more clients mean more billing. More billing means more room for error. If even one code is off or a note is missing, your claim can get stuck for weeks. Providers here aren’t just looking for help — they need speed, accuracy, and someone who actually gets local systems. How Outsourcing Isn’t Just Easier — It’s Smarter? Outsourcing ARHMS billing isn’t just about handing off tasks. It’s about: ● Reclaiming Time: So your team can focus on what they’re best at — client care. ● Reducing Stress: Say goodbye to rejections, late filings, and compliance fears. ● Improving Cash Flow: Claims are submitted right, the first time. What Does Billing Buddies Do Differently? We’re not a generic billing company. We’re local experts who specialize in Minnesota Medicaid systems — especially ARHMS. With Billing Buddies, you get: ● A team trained in Minnesota-specific ARHMS codes and DHS guidelines ● Fast turnaround on claims and re-submissions ● Clean reporting so you always know where your money’s at ● Support that’s personal — we work with your staff, not around them We work with providers throughout Minneapolis and beyond — helping small teams grow by giving them their time and cash flow back. Quick Comparison: DIY Billing vs. Billing Buddies
By Bonnie Flom April 21, 2025
Over 40% of mental health professionals in private practice report delays or denials in insurance reimbursements due to credentialing issues. Without proper credentialing, therapists and counselors risk being excluded from insurance networks—directly impacting patient access and practice revenue. That's where credentialing services for mental health come in. For providers in Minnesota and beyond, working with a dedicated billing partner like Billing Buddies can make the difference between reimbursement success and financial stress. Table of Contents: What This Blog Will Cover What Is Credentialing in Mental Health? Why Is Credentialing So Important? Common Challenges in the Credentialing Process How Billing Buddies Simplifies Credentialing for Mental Health Providers Benefits of Outsourcing Credentialing Services Credentialing vs. Re-Credentialing: Know the Difference The Minnesota Advantage: Why Local Expertise Matters Conclusion + CTA What is Credentialing in Mental Health? Credentialing is the process of verifying a provider’s qualifications—including licenses, education, training, and work history—to ensure they meet the standards of insurance networks. It’s mandatory if you want to be reimbursed by insurers like Blue Cross, Medica, UCare, or UnitedHealthcare. Why is Credentialing So Important? Without proper credentialing: ● You cannot accept insurance. ● Your claims may be rejected. ● You miss out on a major client base. And here’s the kicker—credentialing takes time (30-120 days) and must be accurate to avoid denial. Common Challenges in the Credentialing Process Challenge: Incomplete Applications Missed Deadlines Lack of Follow-Up Misunderstanding Payer Requirements Confusion Between Credentialing & Contracting Impact: Delays or denial in approval Need to restart the process Long waiting periods without updates Leads to rework and frustration Payment delays or lost payer relationships How Billing Buddies Simplifies Credentialing for Mental Health Providers? Billing Buddies offers personalized credentialing services tailored for mental health practices. Our team: ● Prepares and reviews all documents. ● Submits applications to insurance networks. ● Tracks application status with regular updates. ● Handles payer communication. ● Maintains re-credentialing timelines. You focus on patients. We focus on paperwork. Benefits of Outsourcing Credentialing Services When you work with credentialing pros like Billing Buddies, you: ● Speed up approvals ● Reduce errors and rejections ● Improve insurance payouts ● Save administrative time ● Avoid burnout from non-clinical tasks It's a smart move for solo providers and group practices alike. Credentialing vs. Re-Credentialing: Know the Difference Credentialing is the first-time process of getting approved by an insurance network. Re-credentialing happens every 2-3 years to verify that your information is still accurate. Both are necessary—and both are time-sensitive. The Minnesota Advantage: Why Local Expertise Matters? When you choose Billing Buddies, you're not just getting generic credentialing services. You’re partnering with a team that understands mental health billing in Minnesota , including local payer systems, Medicaid requirements, and state-specific nuances. We’ve helped therapists across Minnesota get credentialed quickly and keep their payments flowing. Don’t Let Credentialing Hold You Back Whether you're launching your private practice or expanding your network, proper credentialing is essential. And with so many moving parts, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. That’s where Billing Buddies steps in—to take credentialing off your plate and help you focus on what really matters: patient care. Let Billing Buddies handle the paperwork so you can focus on healing. Also, learn more about our expert solutions for mental health billing in Minnesota today!
By Bonnie Flom April 18, 2025
Fact: Nearly 60% of mental health providers say that insurance billing and credentialing slow down their ability to focus on patient care. Between changing payer rules, claim rejections, and the exhausting credentialing process, providers often find themselves spending more time on admin work than therapy sessions. That’s where specialized mental health billing and credentialing services come in—and Billing Buddies is leading the charge. Table of Contents Why Mental Health Billing Is So Complex What Credentialing Means (and Why It’s a Game-Changer) Benefits of Outsourcing to Billing Buddies Mental Health Billing vs. Medical Billing: What’s Different? Our Process: How Billing Buddies Simplifies It All Summary Table: What You Get with Billing Buddies Final Thoughts + How to Get Started Why is Mental Health Billing So Complex? Unlike general medical billing, mental health services involve unique codes, session limits, and pre-authorizations. Even small errors in time-based coding or failing to include proper documentation can lead to claim denials. Key challenges include: ● Frequent insurance changes ● Limited sessions per year ● Confusing modifiers and CPT codes ● Authorization requirements ● Varied payer-specific rules What Credentialing Means (and why it’s a Game-Changer)? Credentialing is the process of verifying a provider’s qualifications with insurance companies so they can join a payer network. It involves paperwork, follow-ups, and long wait times—anywhere from 60 to 180 days. If you’re not credentialed, you can’t bill insurance. And if you’re improperly credentialed, delays and rejections will keep stacking up. Benefits of Outsourcing to Billing Buddies When you hand off your billing and credentialing tasks to Billing Buddies, you save hours weekly—and potentially thousands of dollars monthly. Perks include: ● Fewer claim denials ● Faster reimbursement ● Error-free submissions ● Up-to-date compliance ● Full credentialing support ● More time for patient care Mental Health Billing vs. Medical Billing: What’s Different?