Step 1: Complete the introductory requirements
- Get your optometry license (see our guide that gives step-by-step instructions on how to get your optometry license in each state)
- Find a place to practice
- Get liability insurance—$1 million per claim.
- Obtain your NPI number.
- Begin the Medicare enrollment process (see our 41 Step Guide to Become a Medicare Provider w/ Screenshots).
- Register with CAQH.
Step 2: Complete plan specific requirements
- Aetna will evaluate need for providers in your area and contact you within 45 days to notify whether you can join their network.
- Designate Aetna as an authorized health plan in your CAQH.
- Once credentialing is complete, the contract will be finalized and you’ll receive welcome materials.
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Step-by-step credentialing guides
The credentialing process for different insurance plans varies quite a bit. Some plans are relatively simple and others require much more work. The below guides walk you through the process for the most common vision and medical insurance plans.
- 41 Step Guide to Become a Medicare Provider w/ Screenshots
- How Optometrists join Medicare as an Independent Contractor 1099
- The Complete Medicare Resource List
- How to Become an AETNA Provider
- How to Become an AlwaysCare Provider
- How to Become a Blue Shield of California Provider
- How to Become a Davis Vision Provider
- How to Become an EyeBenefits Provider
- How to Become an Eyemed Provider
- How to Become an EyeQuest Provider
- How to Become a FEDVIP Provider
- How to Become a Humana Vision Provider
- How to Become a Humana Medical Provider
- How to Become a Spectera Provider
- How to Become a United Health Care Provider
- How to Become a Vision Plan of America Provider
- How to Become a Vision Benefits of America Provider
- How to Become a VSP Provider