Cigna has launched a paperless credentialing system that allows dentists to electronically sign their application and, using the Internet, securely send all required documentation and information, such as professional history, licensure, dental specialties, and education.
Available now to preferred provider organization (PPO) dentists, the new electronic credentialing system is scheduled for release to HMO dentists this fall.
The electronic system saves in many areas, according to the company. It reduces a typical four-hour application process to a single 15- to 30-minute process. In addition, the process to formally accept and add a dentist to the Cigna network can now be completed in 24 hours or less, down from the usual four business days.
"In addition to being environmentally friendly, moving to a paperless system is part of our ongoing effort to make it easier to work with us and give dentists more time to focus on treating patients," said Julie Vayer, vice president for Cigna's dental network and products, in a press release. "Cigna also offers network and non-network dentists and their office staff convenient access via the Internet to eligibility, benefits, and claim/referral information through our secure Web site for healthcare professionals."
Cigna's national PPO network of dentists has more than 60,000 unique dentists serving patients in more than 130,000 office locations. Cigna also has one of the largest dental HMO networks in the U.S. with 13,700 unique dentists in 43,500 office locations.
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