General Practice Credentialing Services
General practice credentialing covers physicians who provide broad primary care services without specific board certification in family medicine or internal medicine. While many general practitioners have transitioned to family medicine board certification, some legacy providers maintain general practice designations. Payer credentialing for general practitioners may face challenges as some networks transition to requiring board certification for new enrollees. Documentation of scope of practice and clinical competency is particularly important for general practice credentialing applications.
Board Certification
Certifying Body: American Board of Family Medicine (ABFM) or equivalent
Typical Credentialing Timeline
60-90 days
Average time from application to approval
Credentialing Challenges for General Practice
- Board certification may not be available for legacy general practitioners who did not complete residency
- Scope of practice documentation is broader and less standardized than specialty practices
- Some payers are phasing out general practice as a credentialing category in favor of family medicine
Frequently Asked Questions
Can general practitioners without board certification get credentialed?
Some payers still credential general practitioners without board certification, particularly for Medicaid and in underserved areas. However, most commercial payers increasingly require board certification for new enrollees.
What is the difference between general practice and family medicine?
Family medicine requires completion of a family medicine residency and ABFM board certification. General practice historically referred to physicians entering practice without completing a residency, though this pathway is now rare.
Are payers phasing out general practice credentialing?
Some payers are transitioning general practice credentialing to family medicine categories. Existing general practice providers typically maintain their enrollment, but new applications may be directed to the family medicine pathway.
Related Specialties
Get Your Free General Practice Credentialing Guide
Enter your email and we will send it over.
Credential Your General Practice Providers Fast
We specialize in general practice credentialing and enrollment.
No long-term contracts. Talk to a real expert.
Reviewed by Arctic Health Team , Credentialing Specialists
Last reviewed: April 2026
Information on this page reflects our experience as of April 2026. Credentialing requirements, payer processes, and state regulations may change. Contact us or check the relevant state medical board and payer websites for the most current requirements. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice.