OTC collections produce a double pay-off

Written by Reed Tinsley | June 5, 2008

Over-the-counter (OTC) collection is important to your practice. Consider this: Those small, unpaid balances end up on patient statements. Each statement sent by your office costs you anywhere from $4 to $7 in materials, staff time, and postage (and that doesn't include time spent following up on collections and posting patient payments received in the mail).

It makes no sense to spend $5 generating a bill for a $10 balance. Even if the patient pays, you seriously cut the value with increased overhead.

Reducing the group's billing and follow-up costs by receiving payments at the time of service will elminate the needless costs and ensures you'll receive full reimbursement.

About the Author

Reed Tinsley CPA

This article is written by Reed Tinsley, a Houston, TX-based CPA with over 30 years of experience advising physicians and medical practices across Texas and the United States. Reed holds certifications as a Certified Valuation Analyst (CVA), Certified Healthcare Business Consultant (CHBC), and Certified Financial Planner (CFP), specializing exclusively in the healthcare sector. He is a published author, nationally recognized speaker, and trusted advisor to physicians on accounting & tax, practice management, and financial planning. Schedule a Free Consultation.

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