5.                                       Credentialing

MHP has established standard credentialing and re-credentialing policies and procedures for practitioner and facility participation throughout all regions. Providers are required to participate in and comply with credentialing and re-credentialing procedures. Failure to do so is grounds for termination from MHP.

MHP may delegate credentialing authority to participating PHOs, networks, or other provider groups after their credentialing program has been audited for compliance with MHP’s credentialing guidelines.

Each practitioner applicant and/or re-applicant must have an independent relationship with MHP, complete an application for participation, and meet the following minimum requirements:

Re-credentialing occurs every three years, verifying a practitioner’s credentials and evaluating his/her performance through analysis of:

A reminder letter is sent to the practitioner at least four months before the re-credentialing due date. The practitioner is asked to update application information on Council for Affordable Healthcare (CAQH) website or submit an application directly to MHP. If a practitioner does not respond to requests for re-credentialing information after two written requests termination activities are initiated.

The Credentialing Committee reviews the re-credentialing information and makes recommendations for or against the physician’s continued participation with MHP. MHP’s chief medical officer reviews and establishes a corrective action plan where necessary. Their determinations are considered final unless the practitioner appeals the decision. Appeal rights will be detailed in a letter sent to the practitioner. All appeals must include additional supporting documentation in favor of the practitioner’s reconsideration for initial or continued participation with MHP.

Practitioners are required to hold members harmless and support continuity of care for up to 90 days after a termination from MHP participation or until the member(s) can be safely transitioned to an in-network practitioner, whichever is less.