How Do I Join the Cigna Healthcare Network as a Provider?

Cigna Healthcare is an excellent choice for health insurance credentialing and contracting for healthcare providers. Their Provider Services department is based in the U.S., which usually means shorter hold times and prompt email responses from their representatives. Despite this, some providers may still find the credentialing process challenging, depending on their specific provider type. To ensure a smoother experience, follow these guidelines.

Medical Providers

Healthcare providers with medical specialties (such as Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, or General Practice) should begin the credentialing process directly with Cigna. According to their website (https://www.cigna.com/health-care-providers/credentialing/join-medical-network), you can call 800-882-4462 to submit a credentialing application or update demographic information over the phone. After submission, Cigna will send a new contract to your office for review and signature. Once Cigna processes and enters the contract into their system, they will email an approval letter with the effective date. While the timeline can vary, Cigna generally advises allowing up to 90 days for processing.

Mental Health Providers

Healthcare providers with a Mental Health specialty (such as LCSWs, Psychologists, LPCs, or LMFTs) should start their credentialing process with Evernorth, a sister company of Cigna that specializes exclusively in Mental Health providers. To begin, visit their website (https://static.evernorth.com/assets/evernorth/provider/resourceLibrary/behavioralResources/doingBusinessWithUs/cbhCredentialing.html) and submit the online Evernorth Behavioral Health Provider Information Form. After submitting your application, Evernorth recommends allowing up to 90 days to complete the credentialing and contracting process.

Mental Health Provider Clinics and Groups

Clinics or behavioral health provider groups that share the same TIN, location, and administrative staff can start the credentialing process with Evernorth by submitting a Screening Application for Autism Services. Send the completed application along with any required attachments to the Evernorth Behavioral Contracting Unit at BehavioralOutpatientClinic@Evernorth.com. Be sure to include the Physical Service Location Form in your email as well. Please allow up to 90 days for processing.

Credentialing with Cigna offers healthcare providers several significant advantages. As a major player in the health insurance industry, Cigna provides access to a broad patient base, which can enhance practice visibility and growth. The streamlined credentialing process, supported by their efficient Provider Services department and generally shorter hold times, facilitates a smooth onboarding experience. Additionally, Cigna’s robust support and timely communication help ensure that providers can quickly address any issues that arise. By joining Cigna’s network, providers benefit from these efficiencies and gain the opportunity to expand their reach, ultimately enhancing their practice’s success and patient care.