Saving Time and Money on Patient Billing
By Marty Hudson and Mike Cowart

In this time of reducing reimbursement and increasing overhead, healthcare organizations must explore every opportunity to control costs. As organizations grow in size, printing needs become more voluminous, time-consuming and expensive. Those at the high end require expensive printers and other equipment to support and maintain high-volume and high print quality. The 21 st century has brought with it electronic communication at a very high level; however, printing remains a key component of communicating with customers. Healthcare organizations have a high volume of statements that must be sent out each month, requiring a great deal of time and overhead. Outsourcing this function may be a huge opportunity.

Explore this further by asking yourself, “What problems do outsourcing services solve?” Everyone involved may have a different viewpoint. Obvious answers may be cost savings, fewer employees or re-deployment of employees to more critical areas. Other opportunities may exist in better utilization of floor space, or old equipment needing replacement or constant maintenance. Other problems to correct may be a performance issue, rather than cost-savings. Is the job too big for the current in-house resources? This can result in extended days in accounts receivable, among other performance issues. Are there in-house limitations in changing statement formats, causing poor communications with your patients?

Whatever opportunities exist; be certain to involve key-players to reveal obstacles and side effects that may arise with any major change in operations. Involvement of key-players also creates buy-in and enhances your opportunity for success. Always monitor and be prepared to modify your changes after implementation. Communicate success and proactively address issues.

Statement Rendering Solutions, LLC, a document processing company located in Nashville, TN, recently implemented an outsource solution to a large group in excess of 25 clinics. An extensive cost analysis determined that they were paying $2.00 to process a patient bill. That cost is now $.60 including postage, outer envelope, reply envelope, customized statement, and all processing costs. Due diligence and a full analysis should be performed, as in any major change. MedicalGPS, LLC and Statement Rendering Solutions can provide you with data and expertise to assist your organization with this analysis and potential opportunities.

Mike Cowart is a Director of New Account Development with Statement Rendering Solutions, LLC, and can be contacted at 615-269-4566, ext 262 or email Mike at mcowart@statementrendering.com