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Get Started

Thanks for your interest in becoming a UnitedHealthcare network provider. The first step is to let us know that you’d like to join our network – known as submitting a Request for Participation (RFP). Just follow the steps below.

Helpful Tip

Here’s what to have handy as you get started:

  • Tax Identification Number (TIN)
  • CAQH (Council for Affordable Quality Healthcare) ProView Account Number – make sure the account is up to date and authorize UnitedHealthcare to access your data

How to Submit a Request for Participation

Send us an email request at networkhelp@uhc.com and include the following information: care provider full name, tax ID, service address location(s), and National Provider Identifier (NPI).

What Happens Next:

  • A representative will start the process with you.
  • You’ll be registered in our system (if you’re not already).
  • You’ll receive a confirmation of your participation request – this usually occurs within 5 business days.
  • We’ll quickly review your application – and if we’re not accepting new applications for your area or specialty, we’ll let you know.
Submit Request Through RFP Portal

What Happens Next:

  • A representative will start the process with you.
  • You’ll be registered in our system (if you’re not already).
  • You’ll receive a confirmation of your participation request – this usually occurs within 5 business days.
  • We’ll quickly review your application – and if we’re not accepting new applications for your area or specialty, we’ll let you know.

Joining a practice with an existing UnitedHealthcare group agreement:

You’ll need to submit your request through the RFP portal or Onboard Pro. Even though you are joining a practice that has a UnitedHealthcare agreement in place, you’ll still need to complete the credentialing process before you can see patients as an in-network provider.

We’re transitioning participating groups from the RFP portal to Onboard Pro, our improved credentialing tool on Link. Open the RFP portal and enter your TIN. You’ll either be rerouted to Onboard Pro or you’ll complete your request in RFP. Learn more about Onboard Pro.

Becoming affiliated with a delegated medical group:

Please refer to the Delegated Credentialing Requirements section of the Delegated Credentialing Program - Capitation and/or Delegation Supplement UnitedHealthcare Administrative Guide.

If you work in this specialty, you’ll contact a partner who handles credentialing and contracting on behalf of UnitedHealthcare: Spectera Eyecare Networks.

To get started, visit the Spectera.com or call 800-638-3120.

If you work in this specialty area, you’ll contact Optum Behavioral Health Solutions, which handles credentialing and contracting on behalf of UnitedHealthcare.

To get started, go to providerexpress.com (look under “Our Network” for specific instructions) or call 800-817-4705.

If you provide medical services in addition to mental health and substance abuse services, you may be eligible to join the networks for both UnitedHealthcare and Optum Behavioral Health

To get started, please send us an email request at networkhelp@uhc.com and include the following information: care provider full name, tax ID, and National Provider Identifier (NPI).

If you work in this specialty, you’ll contact a partner who handles credentialing and contracting on behalf of UnitedHealthcare: Dental Benefit Providers.

To get started, visit dbp.optum.com (look under “Join Our Network”) or call 800-822-5353.

If you work in one of these specialty areas, you’ll contact a partner who handles credentialing and contracting on behalf of UnitedHealthcare: Optum Physical Health. (Note that alternative medicine providers (CAM) include acupuncturists, naturopaths and massage therapists.)

To get started, go to MyOptumHealthPhysicalHealth.com or call 800-873-4575.

The Credentialing Program has been developed in accordance with state and federal requirements and accreditation guidelines. In accordance with those standards, UnitedHealthcare members will not be referred and/or assigned to you until the credentialing process and contracting process have been completed.