Aetna

Aetna’s credentialing process begins with an online application submitted either via CAQH, Aetna’s provider portal or through direct contact with their Provider Relations department. Required documents include your medical or professional license, DEA certificate (if applicable), malpractice insurance, board certifications, education verification, work history, hospital privileges and references. The process typically takes 90–120 days and depends on the completeness of your submission and the responsiveness of your references. To ensure success, keep your CAQH profile up‑to‑date, gather all documentation in advance and follow up regularly on application status. Aetna requires recredentialing every three years. For a step‑by‑step walkthrough, see our Aetna credentialing guide.

Cigna / Evernorth

Cigna (now Evernorth) screens providers using industry standards issued by states, Medicare and the National Committee on Quality Assurance. Applicants must submit a signed participation agreement, a completed standard or state‑mandated application, active state license, professional liability coverage, admitting privileges (if applicable), any additional DEA or CDS licences, education and board certifications, sanction history and employment history. Cigna participates in CAQH’s Universal Credentialing DataSource, allowing providers to submit applications via CAQH. Providers are recredentialed every three years and have the right to review and correct their data and request status updates by contacting the Cigna Credentialing Department at 1‑800‑88Cigna.

UnitedHealthcare (Optum / UHC)

UnitedHealthcare uses the Onboard Pro tool for enrollment and credentialing. To get started you’ll need access to the UHC Provider Portal, your tax identification, legal name and contact information, and CAQH registration when required. Onboard Pro integrates with CAQH ProView in states that require it, reducing duplicate data entry, and provides immediate confirmation and a dashboard to track application status. For detailed instructions, consult our UnitedHealthcare credentialing guide.

EmblemHealth / Carelon Behavioral Health

EmblemHealth contracts with Carelon Behavioral Health (formerly Beacon Health Options) for behavioral health services. Carelon manages behavioral health credentialing and providers should call the Carelon national provider service line at 800‑397‑1630 for assistance. EmblemHealth requires completion of a CAQH credentialing application and may request additional forms, such as an ADA attestation or organizational credentialing application. If you’re looking to expand into telemental health, our New York telemental health practice guide explains the steps to get started.

New York Medicaid (eMedNY)

Licensed mental health counselors and marriage and family therapists must enroll in New York’s Medicaid program through the eMedNY system. Federal rules require screening of providers and ordering/referring clinicians; revalidation occurs at least every five years and an application fee may apply. For providers seeking to participate in federal programs, our Medicare credentialing guide covers the basics of enrolling as a Medicare provider and understanding overlapping requirements.