Greetings:
A caution before joining insurance panels and becoming "in-network" providers~I highly recommend you speak with an account manager of each company and obtain a copy of the reimbursement rates BEFORE joining. I have found that I am reimbursed at a higher rate by being an "out-of-network" provider. I work smarter, not harder! It can be very complicated and stressful. Be selective with your insureres.
I also recommend that you become an LLC~Limited Liability Company BEFORE starting your practice. In addition, obtain an "EIN" employee identification number (tax ID). Do not use your social security number as you will have to ultimately change over to a tax ID.
I did everything "bass ackwards" as they say. My individual NPI is linked to my SS#, I had to get a group NPI that is linked to my "EIN."
Medicare returned my application 6 times when I changed from an individual provider to a "group" provider~
So, I learned the hard way (still learning). I am very happy to be in a private practice that I incorporate my herbal and aromatherapy expertise as well as my psycho-pharmacological knowledge.
Good Luck, Deborah Drumm APN,BC - New Jersey
www.changeyourlifecounseling.com