A collection call to a patient should never be offensive. But it does need to be firm. Remember, the goal is to collect an unpaid balance. With this in mind, here's what to say and how to respond to what a patient says. Begin by putting the patient on the spot, without being confrontational. One possible approach is, "We haven't received payment for this bill we sent you 30 … [Read more...] about How to make a collection call to a patient
Managing patients
Sample policy on domestic abuse
Domestic abuse is a serious issue that affects individuals of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. It can take many forms, including physical, emotional, sexual, financial, and psychological abuse. Medical offices have a unique role in addressing and preventing domestic abuse, as patients may disclose abuse during a medical appointment or seek medical attention as a result of … [Read more...] about Sample policy on domestic abuse
21 easy ways to boost practice profitability fast
Simple changes to billing procedures, hiring policies, purchasing, patient relations, and other daily activities can have a positive impact on your practice's bottom line. Here are 21 ways you can quickly boost practice profitability. 1. Name a reimbursement coordinator To get all the reimbursement possible, hire or appoint someone to be a reimbursement coordinator. It … [Read more...] about 21 easy ways to boost practice profitability fast
Good responses to bad patient reviews
It is important to address every online review—good or bad—publicly so that others reading the review will know you are responsive to patient communication and concerns. Here are some simple steps to addressing a bad review, potentially resolving the patient’s complaint and showing possible future patients how you deal with patient concerns. Keep your cool As much as we … [Read more...] about Good responses to bad patient reviews
Empathy an important workplace leadership quality
Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings, thoughts, and perspectives of others. It involves not only recognizing and acknowledging the emotions of others but also demonstrating care and concern for their well-being. In the context of a workplace leader, empathy is essential for several reasons: Building Trust: Empathetic leaders are more likely to earn … [Read more...] about Empathy an important workplace leadership quality
How to improve your office team with cross-training
Cross-training in a medical office is a powerful strategy to boost your team's capabilities, enhance operations, and provide top-notch patient care. By broadening the skill sets of your staff, you create a more versatile workforce capable of handling diverse responsibilities. Advantages of Cross-Training Enhanced Flexibility: Example: A medical receptionist cross-trained to … [Read more...] about How to improve your office team with cross-training
Patient right of access: Consequences are extreme if you get it wrong
By Suze Shaffer Patients’ right of access has extreme consequences if they are not handled properly. It starts the moment a patient makes this request. HIPAA prohibits unreasonable measures when patients are requesting access to their medical records. Most practices think this request must be in writing. Although this is ideal, sometimes it can cause a problem when the … [Read more...] about Patient right of access: Consequences are extreme if you get it wrong
How to help someone suffering domestic abuse
National Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM), observed in October, is a time to recognize victims and raise awareness about the devastating impact of domestic violence. As the manager of a medical office, you are in a unique position to detect possible abuse of both patients and staff members and to be of help. Domestic violence is a pattern of abusive behavior in any … [Read more...] about How to help someone suffering domestic abuse
Plan now for a smooth winter holiday season
As autumn paints the world in warm hues, it's time to plan how to keep the office running smoothly over the holiday season. Staff scheduling and coverage One of the foremost considerations in holiday planning is managing staff scheduling and coverage. Start by reviewing vacation requests submitted by your staff. Ensure that requests are handled well in advance, allowing ample … [Read more...] about Plan now for a smooth winter holiday season
The importance of proofreading in a medical office: Ensuring accuracy and professionalism
In a medical office, attention to detail and precision are of utmost importance. From patient records to communication with healthcare providers, even a minor error can have serious consequences. Proofreading plays a critical role in maintaining accuracy and professionalism in medical documentation. In this article, we will explore the significance of proofreading for medical … [Read more...] about The importance of proofreading in a medical office: Ensuring accuracy and professionalism