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Writer's pictureAnn Albergotti

How to Improve the Medical Billing Process

Does your medical billing process take too long to complete? Are you struggling to keep everything in order and send claims out promptly?


A photo of a sonogram technician and her patient

We have compiled a list of six ways to make your medical billing process more efficient and effective for your team. Check them out here:


1. Maintain and Update Patient Files

To handle claims billing, you need to have precise details on your patients. ِWith each visit, you and your staff should be confirmed that no patient information has changed since the last visit. Mundane details like a change of address or changes to insurance should be noted. This is also crucial to ensure that it also matches up with third-party payers’ records.



2. Automate Your Billing Functions

One thing that may be dragging your business down is having your staff or yourself handle tedious tasks that could be done automatically. Working with The Billing Department to automate your billing functions can improve staff morale and overall efficiency within your practice.


3. Track Denials

Tracking denied claims can be used as a learning opportunity to improve your process. There are three common reasons for denials:

  • Specialists are not properly credentialed

  • A lack of sufficient documentation

  • The use of codes for services and equipment that are not covered by carriers

Keeping track of chart notes and billing codes daily can reduce the risk of denials. However, if you are still seeing a high rate of denials, it might be time to update your coding protocols and verify your patient’s coverage.



4. Outsource Problematic Collections

Outsourcing your problematic collections to our expert staff here at The Billing Department leaves you and your staff more time to focus on your patients. Outsourcing those problematic collections can also improve the cash flow of your practice. Our staff will take the brunt of the work in ensuring that payment plans are set up and bills are being reimbursed in a timely fashion.


5. Enhance Quality Control

The billing and collection process does not end once a claim is approved. To enhance quality control within your practice, it is recommended to keep a log of important information for your in-house or outsourced billing team. Your log should include:

  • The patient’s name

  • Their account number

  • The receipt number

  • Any outstanding balances owed

  • Date of service

  • And the reference/referral number

6. Follow Up on Claims

Lastly, following up on claims is one of the best ways to improve your medical billing process. Issues can arise on behalf of the patient’s not paying or miscommunication between insurance carriers. Constantly following up and reviewing accounts ensures a faster and more efficient revenue capture.


Using these six tips in your practice makes for a smooth medical billing process. The Billing Department is here for any of your outsourcing needs to ensure you and your staff have time to focus on what really matters, your patients. Click here to contact us and learn more.



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