Best front desk sign I’ve ever seen so far

I was in a primary care physician’s office recently (not a client) where this sign was on the receptionist window:

“We regret, but in order to see you, your insurance company requires us to collect your co-payment at the time of service.”  

My reaction? Brilliant! Outstanding! This office follows this sign up with a strong front desk policy that requires patients to reschedule if they do not have their co-payments. I found out their co-payment collection ratio for managed care patients was near 100%. For those patients coming to this office who are in acute crisis and must be seen, they are triaged for acuity and the self addressed stamped envelope for the copayment is sent home with the patient. Yes it is tough times for many people but I continue to stress that in any “service industry”, and yes, healthcare is a service industry, goods and services are not delivered without payment received. It’s that black and white.

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.