Alpharetta, Ga.-based Surgical Information Systems' Senior Vice President of Revenue Cycle Services Jho Outlaw shared 10 ways ASCs can improve appeals and reduce denials.
Ten tips to know:
1. Keep a vigilant mindset. ASCs should tackle denials with the mindset that they deserve to get paid for services provided. The first step to reducing denials is staying vigilant.
2. Create and stick to processes. Centers should create and maintain processes for flagging and following up on denials.
3. Prioritize staff education. Continuously training staff on the appeals and denials process keeps ASC employees on the same page.
4. Track performance. Auditing team members' performance ensures staff is following procedures correctly.
5. Start benchmarking. Comparing employees' success rates can help ASCs compare themselves to others nationwide.
6. Recognize success. Celebrate successes with the team when reimbursement increases.
7. Take a stand. Make sure to follow up on unfair denials.
8. Negotiate. Appeals successes may help ASCs negotiate future contracts.
9. Keep focused. Repeated denials are disappointing, but it's important to not get discouraged.
10. Pick your battles. Knowing when to pursue or move on from an appeal is key.