MEDIATOR FAQ

• What does being a “paneled provider” mean?
  
• Who can apply to a CFR mediator?
  
• When will CFR stop taking applications from providers?
  
• What is the application process?
  
• Why does CFR need my personal information?
  
• Is a Word version of the application available to download?
  
• Can organizations, as well as individuals, be paneled?
  
• When will I start receiving referrals?
• What kind of mediation cases does CFR handle?
  
• Is CFR hiring for staff mediators?
• Is a face-to-face or telephone interview part of the application process?
• What is your reimbursement/fee structure?
  

1. What does being a “paneled provider” mean?

Once CFR completes the credentialing process, a potential provider is asked to enter into a contractual relationship with CFR as an independent mediation provider. This relationship is the same as any type of independent contractor. Once the provider signs the contract he or she becomes paneled. Only paneled providers are eligible to receive referrals for CFR cases. Paneled providers maintain their independent status and personal professional lives. CFRs provider model is similar to that of a health insurance carrier (PPO/HMO) or employee assistance program (EAP).

2. Who can apply to be a CFR mediator?

Any alternative dispute professional may apply for inclusion on our mediator provider panel. We recognize that many have chosen mediation as an expansion of their current professional practice, as in the case of lawyers or therapists, while others have opted to utilize their existing knowledge and skills in a new arena. As a result, we are not looking for a specific type or background, but a diverse group of mediation professionals who make up CFRs dynamic provider network. We do require that all providers have a minimum of 40 hours of mediation training (online courses are NOT sufficient).

3. When will CFR stop taking applications from providers?

At this point there are no plans to stop taking applications from interested providers, and currently we accept any willing applicant who meets our quality standards. It is likely however, that the panel, in certain geographic areas, may stop accepting every willing applicant to ensure that already paneled providers receive sufficient referrals from CFR.

4. What is the application process?

Once CFR receives a completed application, it is reviewed to ensure our quality standards are met.

Credentials, such as: education and training, licensure status (if applicable), references, and appropriate malpractice coverage, are all thoroughly checked. This process of credentialing can take 4 to 8 weeks.

After credentialing is completed the provider is sent the provider contract, defining the independent contractor agreement between the provider and CFR. Once CFR receives the signed contract from the provider, the process is complete and the provider becomes paneled and then eligible for referrals.

5. Why does CFR need my personal information?

CFR uses the information provided on the application to ensure that paneled providers are qualified to be on the panel and are in professional good standing.

Upon initial referral to contracted providers, tax information is collected as required by law.

6. Is a Word version of the application available to download?

No, we have an Adobe Acrobat (.pdf) version of the document only. Adobe Acrobat Reader is required to read the PDF document. If you do not have this software is available for free here: Adobe Acrobat Reader

7. Can organizations, as well as individuals, be paneled?

CFR is only accepting individuals as paneled providers at this time. If a mediation group or organization wants to be paneled, each individual mediator will have to complete the application process.

8. When will I start receiving referrals?

Providers are eligible to receive referrals as soon as CFR receives the signed contract. We are actively working to increase referrals in all geographic and practice areas.

9. What kind of mediation cases does CFR handle?

Although CFR historically focused on family law related issues, we are actively expanding into all areas of mediation.

10. Is CFR hiring for staff mediators?

No. CFR is not seeking staff mediators.

11. Is a face-to-face or telephone interview part of the application process?

Not usually. However, some telephone interviews may be held to clarify information or further ensure qualifications of a particular mediator. Any interviews will be initiated by CFR. Telephone calls to our offices are not necessary to expedite the credentialing process.

12. What is your reimbursement/fee structure?

Copies of the CFR reimbursement/fee schedule will be given upon approval to the panel.