1. Educate your staff to communicate with your patients. Communicate your goals and objectives with your staff. Provide helpful tools and resources that they can be proud to offer to patients.
2. Clarify financial obligations prior to treatment. One of the most critical pieces is to determine the amount owed by the patient prior to treatment. Set goals for upfront collections and raise your staff’s commitment to explaining your payment policies in advance.
3. Provide simple, clear, concise statements. Track how many patients call in to get assistance in understanding their bill. Identify the most frequently asked questions and make adjustments where needed.
4. Include educational literature with your statements. Many providers find that an additional insert with a glossary of terms, or a “What to do When You Receive a Medical Bill” brochure that outlines simple options, can be very helpful.
5. Offer online billing, payment and assistance. A 2008 Pew Internet Study found that 39 percent of Americans pay their bills online. Providing patients with an online bill pay option can improve your patient collections. Your Web site can also offer assistance with understanding EOBs and common insurance and medical billing terminology.
Learn more at about Mnet Financial Collection Agency.
Read more practical guidance on how to improve ASC collections:
– Addressing and Overcoming Collections Challenges in Your ASC
– 3 Steps to Identify and Reduce Collections Problems
– Using New Processes and Technologies to Maximize ASC Patient Collections
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.