Physicians will need to enforce stricter policies, procedures to collect patient co-payments, deductibles
Affordable Care Act Latest in Half-Century of Healthcare Reform
Highlights in 50-year timeline of national healthcare legislation, proposals, and policies since the Social Security Act was adopted in 1965
Role of the Physician and Healthcare Professional in Helping a Patient Obtain Disability Benefits
A review of the two most common disability insurance programs for people who can no longer work, and the healthcare worker’s role in assisting patients with their disability claims.
The American College of Rheumatology (ACR) can Help Combat Insurance Frustrations
When it comes to dealing with insurance companies, the rules seem to change frequently and always in an arbitrary and capricious way. The ACR is trying its best to protect rheumatologists, but we need your help!
Dos and Don’ts of Verifying Insurance Benefits
Not verifying insurance benefits prior to rendering service can result in nonpayment, which affects your bottom line. Because this is a costly mistake that can be avoided, make it routine to verify eligibility prior to every patient visit.
Coding Corner Question: Eligibility Quiz for Front Office Staff
January’s Coding Challenge
Coding Corner Answer: Eligibility Quiz for Front Office Staff
January’s Coding Answer
RHEUMATOLOGY PRACTICE PEARLS: Is Your Practice Ready for 5010?
If your practice electronically submits administrative transactions to verify patient insurance eligibility, file claims, or send or receive remittance either directly to insurance companies or through a clearinghouse, the transaction version for that system will have to be updated by January 1, 2012. The current version 4010 is outdated and cannot accommodate the necessary business transactions for physician practices and healthcare facilities.
Advocating for Your Interests in the Health Insurance Marketplace
As healthcare reform ramps up and fists grip tighter around the almighty healthcare dollar, the ACR is moving ahead full force in advocating for your interests in the delivery of healthcare. Through what could be described as “offensive” and “defensive” strategies, the ACR is positioning itself as a visible and active player in the managed care marketplace.
Mind Your Accounts Receivable
Over time, one would expect financial management of a medical practice to become more streamlined and simple. With the abundance of electronic tools, software programs, and the Internet, you can find assistance and problem-solving strategies for economic efficiency. In the rush to take advantage of these support tools, basic facets of financial management, such as billing and collection, have fallen by the wayside.