Credentialing Program Assistant

Summary

The Credentialing Program Assistant serves as a subject matter expert to Licensed Independent Practitioners and Service Chiefs on both routine and complex matters related to credentialing and privileging, including assessing provider competence for ongoing provider practice evaluations and focused provider practice evaluations. The functions of the Medical Staff Office are critical to patient safety and to ensuring the quality of care provided at the Portland VA Medical Center.

Duties

Duties and responsibilities: Assists the C&P Manager/Analyst in developing short- and long-term goals necessary to accomplish the mission of the C&P program. Serves as the subject matter expert in the field of credentials and clinical privileging. Receives and reviews correspondence and communications for the C&P function and determines which items require immediate attention and which are confidential. Ensures accurate provider data is entered into and maintained in the VetPro computer program. Manages provider applications (initial and renewals) for LIPs C&P within the VAMC. Provides guidance and instruction to hospital staff in completing the required documentation for establishing privileges for LIPs. Communicates with LIPs to assure timely completion of applications and VetPro requirements. Determines processes for the coordination of incoming data and documents from a variety of sources. Serves as technical advisor to the Executive Committee of the Medical Staff (ECMS) and, if applicable, the Credentials Committee. Conducts final appointment into the VetPro database, after thoroughly researching, analyzing, and validating all data, information, documents, and signature authorities. Work Schedule: Monday-Friday 7:30am-4:00pm Compressed/Flexible: Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Position Description/PD#: Credentialing Program Assistant/PD21794-A Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not authorized

Qualifications

To qualify for this position, applicants must meet all requirements within 30 days of the closing date of this announcement, 10/19/2026. You may qualify based on your specialized experience as described below: Specialized Experience: You must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade GS-5 in the normal line of progression for the occupation in the organization. Examples of specialized experience would typically include, but are not limited to: Ensures accurate provider data is entered into and maintained in computer programs. Ensures current information is present on providers relative to licensure, certifications, and other required documentation. Prepares agendas for meetings, ensures those involved are notified of expectations, and ensures all necessary paperwork is completed and accurately prepared for committee action. Creates an automated system of program-specific data to track suspense on items such as project milestones, progress reports, and compliance strategies. Establishes and maintains a variety of files and records. Preferred Experience: Serving as a subject matter expert (SME) in the field of medical staff credentialing and clinical privileging, including familiarity with VetPro or similar credentialing management systems. In-depth understanding of, and experience applying, The Joint Commission (T JC) standards, VHA policy, and other regulatory/credentialing requirements in a healthcare setting. Direct experience performing primary source verification of provider credentials (licenses, DEA certifications, specialty training, board certifications, etc.). Demonstrated skill in managing, tracking, and auditing credentialing data within computer programs and electronic databases, with experience in maintaining accurate, up-to-date records and preparing quality assurance reports. Assisting in and/or leading continuous process improvements for credentialing operations, including drafting procedures or protocols and conducting annual self­-assessments. Managing confidential provider documents in compliance with the Privacy Act and other federal data privacy standards. Experience reconciling program-related financial transactions and supporting payments (e.g., for NPDB enrollments, license verifications). Providing training and instruction to staff on credentialing processes and requirements. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religions; spiritual; community; student; social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. For more information on these qualification standards, please visit the United States Office of Personnel Management's website at https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/.

Education

There is no educational substitution at this grade level.