Clear, enforced payment policies can help physician practices accept patients even when finances are tight, according to an American Medical News report.
According to the report, physician practices should have a clear policy around payment that explains when payment is expected and how patients can pay their bill. Experts say good payment policies that are reasonably enforced mean physicians and medical practices should not have to turn patients away because of money.
Experts say these policies are especially important now because patients are responsible for an increasing share of their medical bills. Physicians and medical staff need to not only be able to collect money, but also deal with patients who don't have cash, check or credit card when they arrive at the practice.
Policies should take into account the fact that many patients do not understand their insurance policies or that they are required to pay a co-pay. The policies should also be clear and consistent to minimize legal or public relations problems, according to the report.
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According to the report, physician practices should have a clear policy around payment that explains when payment is expected and how patients can pay their bill. Experts say good payment policies that are reasonably enforced mean physicians and medical practices should not have to turn patients away because of money.
Experts say these policies are especially important now because patients are responsible for an increasing share of their medical bills. Physicians and medical staff need to not only be able to collect money, but also deal with patients who don't have cash, check or credit card when they arrive at the practice.
Policies should take into account the fact that many patients do not understand their insurance policies or that they are required to pay a co-pay. The policies should also be clear and consistent to minimize legal or public relations problems, according to the report.
Related Articles on Billing, Coding and Collections:
Surgery Center Coding Guidance: Use of Modifiers PT and 33
Wall Street Journal: "There's a Code for That" Under ICD-10
Study: Health Insurance Denial Rates Routinely Exceed 20%