Medicaid

How to Get Credentialed with Medi-Cal in California

Network: Open
60-90 Days

Quick Overview

Timeline

60 - 90 days

CAQH

Not Required

Re-credentialing

Every 5 year(s)

Delegated

No

California-Specific Requirements

California Medicaid (Medi-Cal) enrollment steps: (1) Obtain NPI via NPPES. (2) Submit application through PAVE (Provider Application and Validation for Enrollment), the DHCS online enrollment system. (3) Complete fingerprint Live Scan background check at an authorized location, required for initial enrollment. (4) Receive Medi-Cal provider number upon approval. Managed care is mandatory in most California counties, requiring separate credentialing with Medi-Cal managed care plans. Behavioral health providers accepted include LMFT, LCSW, LPCC, and Licensed Psychologist with active CA licensure; specialty mental health services are administered through county Mental Health Plans (MHPs). Revalidation is required every 5 years.

Medicaid Information — California

Agency: Department of Health Care Services (DHCS)

Program: Medi-Cal

Portal: https://pave.dhcs.ca.gov

Phone: (916) 323-1945

Step-by-Step Enrollment Process

1

Gather Required Documents

Collect all necessary credentials including your medical license, DEA certificate, malpractice insurance, NPI number, and any state-specific requirements for California.

2

Prepare Your Application

Complete Medi-Cal's provider enrollment application with all required information and supporting documentation.

3

Submit Your Application

Submit your completed enrollment package to Medi-Cal.

4

Track & Follow Up

Credentialing typically takes 60-90 days. Monitor your application status and respond promptly to requests for additional information.

Required Documents Checklist

Background Check

Federal/state background check required for Medicaid enrollment

CV/Resume

Work history required

FINGERPRINT_CLEARANCE

Conditional

Required for high-risk provider types

Fingerprinting required for high-risk provider types

Malpractice Insurance

Conditional

Required in most states; some state programs waive for government employees

Medical License

NPI Certificate

Enrollment Forms

Medi-Cal PAVE Enrollment

Required
Online Open →

Contact Information

Provider Enrollment

National

(916) 323-1945

General Provider Inquiries

National

(916) 323-1945

Quick Links

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