ASCs struggle with timely payments even more than hospitals and hospital outpatient departments do, according to Clear Gage.
Here are three ways to improve patient collections:
1. Get team members on the same page. Establish clear financial policies and procedures in a defined collections policy. Consider developing a written patient financial policy, which takes into account various deductibles, guidelines, minimum payments, payment plans and payment options. Train staff how to collect payments, understand policies and take action to achieve policy standards.
2. Make sure patients are fully informed about their financial responsibilities. Ensure patients know the best way to contact you, and encourage questions and conversations concerning the collections process. Provide patients with informative guides and other resources.
3. Utilize patient financial counselors. Patient financial counselors guide patients through the payment process, helping them understand policies and holding them accountable. The counselors must thoroughly understand all ASC policies and available payment options. Counselors should confirm insurance coverage and then contact patients one week prior to the procedure to communicate the amount owed, answer questions or refer patients to the business office to review payment plan options.