Collect those copays up front

Written by Reed Tinsley | August 27, 2008

Up front you say? Isn’t that standard operating procedure in all physician offices? Yes it’s standard operating procedure but what about collecting the patient copayment BEFORE they are escorted to the exam room. In other words, the copayment is collected when the patient checks in for their appointment.

This is not standard operating procedure in most physician offices believe or not. Speed up your cash flow and better your front desk copayment collection percentage by implementing this strict policy. Some offices even make the patient reschedule their appointment if they can’t pay their copayment before seeing the physician (in non-emergency cases of course).

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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