A majority of the carriers are not reimbursing practices based on their negotiated fee schedule. Over the past few years, Sharon Pizzato, office manager for Dr. Gotthelf's office in Pensacola, discovered that two large insurance companies were underpaying her. Go back and fight for that five or 10 dollars they're shorting you. Collect patient payments up front. Insurance reimbursements are only part of the accounts receivable equation.
Experts suggest that practices collect all copayments before the patient leaves the office.
To avoid surprises, educate new patients about your policies as soon as they make an appointment. We let patients know that in the future, they cannot do that. We give them a prepaid postage envelope to mail the payment in. Md. Keep it in sight at the front desk. Give patients many payment options.