5 ways ASCs can optimize patient collections

With patients responsible for an increasing amount of their healthcare costs, ASC staff should keep in mind the patients’ satisfaction and surgical experience when collecting, according to Jho Outlaw, senior vice president of revenue cycle services for Apharetta, Ga.-based Surgical Information Systems.

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Five patient collection tips:

1. Keep communications private. Discuss collections with patients before they arrive for their procedure to avoid disclosing private information at the ASC.

2. Recognize patient discomfort. Some patients may express discomfort when asked about collections; ASC staff should be trained to spot discomfort and alleviate patient stress.

3. Set goals. Work to improve the percentage of successful collections incrementally through competition and incentives.

4. Involve staff. Physicians and other ASC staff should be briefed on what to say if a patient has questions about their balance.

5. Ask for feedback. Consult staff about the ways the patient collections process could be improved.

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At the Becker’s 32nd Annual Meeting: The Business and Operations of ASCs, taking place October 29-31 in Chicago, ASC leaders, surgeons and healthcare executives will explore strategies to drive growth, enhance operational performance, navigate reimbursement challenges and prepare for the future of ambulatory surgery. Apply for complimentary registration now.

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Is ambulatory care healthcare’s big margin engine? 4 leaders weigh in

Wednesday, July 29
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM CDT

Presenters: Joe Ganley, athenahealthJeffrey Flynn, CASC, Gramercy Surgery CenterBryan Tsao, Access Center, Loma Linda University HealthJason Zepeda, Northridge Hospital Medical Center, CommonSpirit HealthGreg DeConciliis, PA-C, CASC, Boston Out­Patient Surgical Suites

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