Refining Project Management Skills

Even the most seasoned medical office professionals may find credentialing providers to be a complex and time-consuming process. Credentialing specialists must be on top of their game when it comes to managing new physician credentialing as well as the mandatory recredentialing that must be completed every few years. As the workload grows year after year, medical offices have moved away from manual processes and more toward automation, allowing employees to be more strategic and efficient while still serving as gatekeepers for patient safety. Credentialing specialists have become leaders within the healthcare industry with continued departmental growth and becoming skilled project managers. Project management typically consumes a significant amount of time throughout everyday tasks.

 Certifications

Continuing education has played an enormous role with credentialing specialists developing their project management skills. Educational resources such as webinars, online courses, whitepapers, and attending credentialing conferences, have helped refine skillsets and expand knowledge. The National Association Medical Staff Services (NAMSS) believes in the longevity, importance, and relevance of the medical services profession by providing resources to expand field expertise. NAMSS accredited certification program provides the skills and knowledge to effectively demonstrate expertise within the credentialing industry. Each of the NAMSS certifications – Certified Provider Credentialing Specialist (CPCS) and Certified Professional Medical Services Management (CPMSM) – focus on developing and implementing processes and procedures with credentialing, privileging, and enrollment. Not only are these certifications career enhancements, but they also develop project management skills.

 Online courses

Along with national certifications, many credentialing professionals expand their knowledge through industry-specific software expertise. Becoming proficient with an industry-based program is a tremendous tool for career enhancement and advancement. Recently, ASM announced the rollout of MD-Staff Academy, an online, self-paced training program with over 26 courses specialized in MD-Staff product knowledge. Each course consists of videos, knowledge checks, and a quiz for proficiency. MD-Staff Academy is a great tool for onboarding new staff as well as expanding knowledge of all modules. Many courses are geared to create efficiencies throughout the modules to streamline projects with workflows and management. The greater the depth of knowledge of the credentialing system you use, the greater the reward with the structured and planned workload. Many professionals showcase these accomplishments on professional websites such as LinkedIn and their resumes.

 Peers

Asking your peers is another wonderful way to develop your project management skills in the credentialing industry. Your network of coworkers and peers extends beyond the confines of your office. Connect with others on social media, send an email, or call. Many seasoned colleagues are always happy to provide the best tactics and advice. If they are unable to assist directly, your peers can suggest you to someone who can!