Credentialing assistants work in the health-care field. They are primarily responsible for assisting physicians with preparing and submitting credentialing applications. Credentials are given to physicians upon completion of training for specific procedures or in specific fields, certifying the physician is experienced and capable of providing the patient care needed. Credentialing assistants are employed in a variety of medical office settings.

Functions

Credentialing assistants prepare and submit credentialing applications. They also follow up on the status of applications for physicians and payers, and keep a detailed log of all pending and completed work. They communicate the results and status of the applications to physicians, payers, managers and co-workers.

Education

A credentialing assistant must have a high school diploma or equivalent as well as past medical office experience. Although not required, employers typically prefer a credentialing assistant to have past work experience related to credentialing or an associate degree.

Knowledge and Skills

Credentialing assistants must have excellent written and verbal skills. They must be detail oriented. They must have time management skills and meet deadlines. They must have the ability to work independently with little supervision, but work and communicate well with others when required. Credentialing assistants must follow directions and be well organized. A credentialing assistant must also have working knowledge of word processing and spreadsheet software and know how to work fax and copy machines.

Physical Requirements

Credentialing assistants must be able to see to read reports and use a computer. They must be able to hear well enough to communicate with co-workers and staff. Credentialing assistants may have to move objects of up to 50 pounds occasionally, up to 20 pounds frequently, and up to 10 pounds of force regularly.

Wages and Benefits

According to Salary.com, the median expected salary for a credentialing assistant is $38,975 as of May 2010. Salary for a credentialing assistant is influenced by location, employer size, industry, employee credentials and education, and years of experience.

Credentialing assistants can expect to receive above-average health care, vision and dental packages. In addition, they usually receive a benefits package that includes 401(k), life insurance, and paid sick and vacation leave.