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Category: Medical Billing

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June 21, 2024 by AMS Solutions 0 Comments

In the dynamic landscape of healthcare, staying ahead requires embracing technological advancements that enhance efficiency, accuracy, and compliance in medical billing. At AMS Solutions in Dallas, TX, we are committed to leveraging cutting-edge technologies that streamline billing processes and optimize revenue cycle management for healthcare providers. Let’s explore the key trends shaping the future of medical billing technology and how AMS Solutions is leading the way.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning are revolutionizing medical billing by automating repetitive tasks, predicting billing outcomes, and identifying patterns in billing data. AI-powered billing software can analyze large volumes of patient data, coding requirements, and payer trends to improve coding accuracy, reduce claim denials, and optimize reimbursement rates. AMS Solutions integrates AI-driven solutions to enhance billing efficiency and accuracy, helping healthcare providers navigate complex billing scenarios with ease.

Telehealth Integration

The rapid adoption of telehealth services has transformed healthcare delivery, prompting a shift in medical billing practices. Telehealth platforms generate unique billing codes and documentation requirements that differ from traditional in-person visits. AMS Solutions ensures seamless integration of telehealth billing processes, facilitating accurate claim submission and reimbursement for virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and telemedicine services. Our expertise in telehealth billing compliance ensures that healthcare providers maximize reimbursement while maintaining regulatory adherence.

Blockchain for Secure Transactions

Blockchain technology offers unprecedented security and transparency in medical billing transactions. By creating decentralized and tamper-proof records of patient encounters, diagnoses, treatments, and payments, blockchain enhances data integrity and reduces billing fraud. AMS Solutions explores blockchain applications in medical billing to safeguard patient information, streamline claims processing, and foster trust between healthcare providers and payers.

Electronic Health Records (EHR) Integration

Effective communication between Electronic Health Records (EHR) systems and billing platforms is essential for efficient medical billing workflows. AMS Solutions facilitates seamless EHR integration, ensuring that patient data flows seamlessly from clinical documentation to billing systems. Integrated EHR and billing systems enhance billing accuracy, reduce duplicate data entry, and improve billing cycle times, allowing healthcare providers to focus more on patient care and less on administrative tasks.

Mobile and Cloud-Based Solutions

Mobile and cloud-based medical billing solutions provide flexibility and accessibility for healthcare providers, allowing them to manage billing tasks anytime, anywhere. AMS Solutions offers secure mobile applications and cloud-based platforms that enable real-time access to billing data, claim status updates, and financial reports. These solutions empower healthcare providers to monitor revenue streams, track performance metrics, and make informed business decisions on the go.

Compliance and Regulatory Technology

Navigating healthcare regulations and compliance requirements is critical for medical billing success. AMS Solutions invests in regulatory technology (RegTech) tools that automate compliance checks, ensure adherence to billing guidelines (such as HIPAA and ICD-10), and mitigate risks of audits or penalties. Our proactive approach to regulatory compliance safeguards patient confidentiality and maintains the highest standards of ethical billing practices.

Partner with AMS Solutions for Leading-Edge Medical Billing Technology

AMS Solutions is dedicated to harnessing the power of innovative technology to drive operational efficiency and financial performance for healthcare providers in Dallas, TX, and beyond. Our commitment to excellence, combined with advanced technological solutions, positions us as a trusted partner in medical billing optimization.

Contact Us Today

Ready to embrace the future of medical billing technology with AMS Solutions? Contact our team today to learn more about our comprehensive billing services and discover how we can tailor solutions to meet your practice’s unique needs.

Visit our website to explore more about our advanced medical billing technology solutions and why healthcare providers choose AMS Solutions for innovative billing services.

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June 11, 2024 by AMS Solutions 0 Comments

In today’s rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, medical practices face a multitude of challenges, from navigating complex billing regulations to managing operational efficiency. One effective solution that many healthcare providers are turning to is outsourcing medical billing services. At AMS Solutions, we understand the critical role that outsourcing plays in optimizing revenue cycle management and ensuring the financial health of medical practices. Let’s explore why outsourcing medical billing is a strategic decision for healthcare providers.

Streamlined Expertise and Specialization

Outsourcing medical billing allows healthcare providers to leverage the expertise and specialized knowledge of professional billing companies like AMS Solutions. Our dedicated team of billing specialists stays updated with the latest industry trends, regulatory changes, and coding updates, ensuring accurate and compliant billing practices. By outsourcing, medical practices can focus on delivering quality patient care without the burden of managing complex billing processes internally.

Cost Efficiency and Revenue Optimization

Managing an in-house billing department can be costly and resource-intensive. Outsourcing medical billing offers cost savings through reduced overhead expenses, including salaries, benefits, training, and technology investments. Additionally, outsourcing companies like AMS Solutions implement efficient billing processes that minimize claim denials, reduce billing errors, and accelerate reimbursement cycles. This results in improved cash flow and optimized revenue collection for medical practices.

Compliance and Regulatory Adherence

Navigating the intricate landscape of healthcare billing regulations, such as HIPAA compliance and coding requirements, requires meticulous attention to detail and adherence to stringent guidelines. AMS Solutions adheres to industry best practices and compliance standards, ensuring that all billing processes meet regulatory requirements. By outsourcing to a reputable billing partner, medical practices mitigate compliance risks and maintain the confidentiality and security of patient information.

Enhanced Focus on Patient Care

Outsourcing medical billing allows healthcare providers to redirect their focus and resources towards patient care and practice growth initiatives. By delegating administrative tasks to experienced billing professionals, medical practices can improve patient satisfaction, reduce wait times, and enhance overall service delivery. This patient-centric approach not only strengthens patient-provider relationships but also contributes to the long-term success and reputation of the practice.

Scalability and Flexibility

As medical practices grow or adapt to changes in patient volume, outsourcing medical billing provides scalability and flexibility to accommodate fluctuating demands. AMS Solutions offers customizable billing solutions tailored to the unique needs and preferences of each practice, whether it’s primary care, specialty clinics, or hospital departments. Our scalable services ensure seamless integration with existing practice management systems, allowing for efficient workflow management and operational continuity.

Partner with AMS Solutions for Comprehensive Medical Billing Services

At AMS Solutions, we are committed to empowering healthcare providers with efficient, accurate, and compliant medical billing services. Our dedication to excellence, combined with advanced technology and industry expertise, makes us a trusted partner for medical practices seeking to streamline operations and optimize financial performance.

Contact Us Today

Ready to enhance your practice’s financial health and operational efficiency through outsourcing medical billing? Contact AMS Solutions today to schedule a consultation with our team of billing specialists. Let us demonstrate how our tailored solutions can support your practice’s growth and success.

Visit our website to learn more about our comprehensive medical billing services and discover why healthcare providers trust AMS Solutions for reliable and efficient billing solutions.

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May 25, 2024 by AMS Solutions 0 Comments

Providing comprehensive care for individuals struggling with substance abuse is a noble and challenging endeavor. Drug treatment facilities play a crucial role in helping individuals overcome addiction and reclaim their lives. However, navigating the complexities of medical billing for drug treatment services can be overwhelming for healthcare providers. In this article, we’ll explore the unique billing considerations for drug treatment facilities and how AMS Solutions can help providers in Dallas, Texas, optimize their revenue cycle management.

Understanding the Challenges of Billing for Drug Treatment Services

Billing for drug treatment services presents unique challenges due to the diverse range of services offered and the complexity of insurance coverage and reimbursement policies. Drug treatment facilities may offer a variety of services, including:

  • Inpatient detoxification
  • Residential treatment programs
  • Outpatient counseling and therapy
  • Medication-assisted treatment (MAT)
  • Dual diagnosis treatment for co-occurring mental health disorders

Each of these services may be billed differently depending on factors such as the level of care provided, the duration of treatment, and the individual’s insurance coverage. Additionally, navigating the maze of insurance regulations, preauthorization requirements, and billing codes can be daunting for providers, leading to delays in reimbursement and revenue loss.

The Importance of Accurate and Timely Billing

Accurate and timely billing is essential for the financial health and sustainability of drug treatment facilities. Delays or denials in reimbursement can have serious implications, including cash flow issues, operational challenges, and compromised patient care. By partnering with a trusted medical billing company like AMS Solutions, drug treatment facilities can streamline their billing processes, reduce administrative burden, and maximize revenue.

Billing Considerations for Drug Treatment Facilities

When billing for drug treatment services, providers must consider several key factors to ensure accurate and compliant claims submission:

  1. Verification of Benefits: Before initiating treatment, it’s essential to verify the patient’s insurance coverage and eligibility for substance abuse treatment services. This includes verifying benefits for inpatient and outpatient services, coverage for medication-assisted treatment, and any preauthorization requirements.
  2. Proper Documentation: Accurate and detailed documentation of services rendered is critical for successful claims submission and reimbursement. Providers must ensure that treatment plans, progress notes, and other documentation meet the requirements of payers and regulatory agencies.
  3. Billing Codes: Selecting the appropriate billing codes is crucial for accurate claims submission and reimbursement. Drug treatment facilities may use a combination of Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS) codes, Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes, and National Drug Codes (NDCs) to bill for services such as counseling sessions, medication management, and laboratory tests.
  4. Insurance Verification and Authorization: Some insurance plans require preauthorization for certain drug treatment services, such as inpatient detoxification or residential treatment programs. Providers must obtain prior authorization from payers to ensure that services will be covered and reimbursed.

How AMS Solutions Can Help

AMS Solutions is a leading medical billing company in Dallas, Texas, specializing in revenue cycle management for drug treatment facilities. Our team of experienced billing specialists understands the unique challenges and complexities of billing for substance abuse treatment services and is committed to helping providers optimize their revenue cycle and achieve financial success.

By partnering with AMS Solutions, drug treatment facilities can:

  • Improve cash flow and revenue
  • Reduce billing errors and denials
  • Ensure compliance with insurance regulations
  • Streamline billing processes and increase efficiency
  • Focus on providing quality patient care without the administrative burden of billing and collections

Conclusion

Billing for drug treatment services requires careful attention to detail, expertise in insurance regulations, and a commitment to accuracy and compliance. Drug treatment facilities in Dallas, Texas, can benefit from partnering with a trusted medical billing company like AMS Solutions to navigate the complexities of billing and revenue cycle management effectively. With AMS Solutions by their side, providers can focus on what they do best—helping individuals overcome addiction and lead healthy, fulfilling lives.

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May 12, 2024 by AMS Solutions 0 Comments

As a healthcare provider, you understand the importance of efficient revenue cycle management and accurate medical billing. However, managing the complexities of medical billing in-house can be time-consuming, resource-intensive, and prone to errors. That’s where AMS Solutions, your trusted medical billing partner in Dallas, Texas, comes in. In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of outsourcing medical billing services and how AMS Solutions can help you maximize revenue and streamline operations.

1. Focus on Patient Care

Outsourcing medical billing allows healthcare providers to focus on what matters most: patient care. By entrusting your billing processes to AMS Solutions, you can spend less time navigating billing regulations and more time providing quality care to your patients. Our team of experienced billing specialists handles all aspects of the billing process, from claim submission to payment posting, so you can focus on delivering excellent patient outcomes.

2. Reduce Administrative Burden

Medical billing is a complex and time-consuming task that requires specialized knowledge and expertise. By outsourcing your billing to AMS Solutions, you can alleviate the administrative burden on your staff and free up valuable time and resources. Our dedicated billing team stays up-to-date on the latest billing regulations and best practices, ensuring accurate and timely claims processing while minimizing denials and rejections.

3. Increase Revenue

Effective revenue cycle management is essential for the financial health of your practice. AMS Solutions leverages industry-leading technology and proven processes to maximize revenue and optimize cash flow for our clients. From timely claim submission and follow-up on unpaid claims to thorough accounts receivable management, we work tirelessly to ensure that you receive every dollar you’re owed.

4. Improve Billing Accuracy

Medical billing errors can result in claim denials, delayed payments, and compliance issues, costing your practice time and money. AMS Solutions employs a rigorous quality assurance process to ensure the accuracy and integrity of every claim we submit on your behalf. Our team conducts thorough reviews of all claims before submission, identifying and correcting errors to minimize the risk of denials and rejections.

5. Enhance Compliance

Navigating the ever-changing landscape of healthcare regulations and compliance requirements can be challenging for healthcare providers. AMS Solutions stays abreast of all regulatory changes and updates to ensure that our clients remain compliant with state and federal billing regulations. By partnering with AMS Solutions, you can have peace of mind knowing that your billing processes are in full compliance with industry standards and regulations.

6. Access to Advanced Technology

AMS Solutions invests in state-of-the-art billing software and technology to streamline the billing process and enhance efficiency. Our advanced billing platform integrates seamlessly with your existing practice management system, allowing for seamless data exchange and real-time access to billing information. With AMS Solutions, you’ll have access to the tools and technology you need to optimize your revenue cycle and achieve greater financial success.

Partner with AMS Solutions for Comprehensive Medical Billing Services in Dallas, Texas

AMS Solutions is your trusted partner for comprehensive medical billing services in Dallas, Texas. With our proven track record of success and commitment to excellence, we help healthcare providers across specialties maximize revenue, streamline operations, and improve patient care. Contact AMS Solutions today to learn more about our medical billing services and schedule a consultation.

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April 11, 2024 by AMS Solutions 0 Comments

Medical billing is a sector that moves incredibly quickly, while also being highly complex. In the midst of this, recoupment requests can be a significant challenge for healthcare providers. These demands for the return of previously disbursed funds can disrupt the financial stability of practices and create administrative headaches. Understanding the triggers and implications of recoupment is essential for any medical establishment aiming to safeguard its revenues.

In this post, we’ll discuss not only the nature of these requests but also how proactive measures and the right support can help mitigate their impact. In the end, we’ll also highlight a medical billing and recoupment expert. If you’re looking to strengthen your billing processes and reduce financial risk, you’re in the right place, let’s get to it.

What Are Recoupment Requests?

Recoupment refers to the process by which insurance payers reclaim funds they’ve previously paid out, typically due to claims errors or policy violations. These requests can arise from simple clerical errors, misinterpretation of guidelines, or incorrect patient information. 

The consequences for healthcare practices can be severe, ranging from cash flow interruptions to the need for extensive administrative review and response efforts. By grasping the roots and ramifications of recoupment, providers can better prepare to address and dispute these requests when necessary.

Preventive Measures for Recoupment Requests

The best approach to handling recoupment requests is preventing them from occurring in the first place. Here are some essential strategies that may help your practice keep more of the money your practice makes. 

  1. Detailed Documentation: Maintain comprehensive and accurate patient records. Ensure that all services are properly documented with the correct codes and that these records are easy to retrieve and review.
  2. Timely Billing Practices: Submit claims promptly and ensure they are complete and accurate. Delayed or incorrect claims are more likely to be flagged for recoupment.
  3. Regular Compliance Audits: Conduct regular audits to ensure that billing practices comply with payer guidelines and regulations. This not only helps in identifying potential issues before they result in recoupment but also strengthens the overall billing process.
  4. Education and Training: Keep your billing staff updated on the latest coding standards and healthcare regulations. Continuous education helps in reducing errors that could lead to recoupment.

How AMS Solutions Can Help

Navigating the complexities of medical billing and recoupment requests requires expertise and precision, qualities that AMS Solutions embodies. With years of experience in the medical billing industry, our team is equipped to handle the challenges that come with managing recoupment requests. We offer a suite of services designed to fortify your billing processes, including advanced software, expert response, and even custom training for your staff.

Our technology ensures accurate claim submissions, reducing the chances of errors that could lead to recoupment. We provide thorough review and swift response services to manage and dispute recoupment requests effectively. AMS Solutions also offers tailored training programs to keep your staff abreast of the latest billing practices and compliance requirements.

Partner with AMS to Combat Recoupment Requests

Effectively managing recoupment requests is crucial for maintaining the financial health and operational efficiency of any healthcare practice. By implementing robust preventive measures and leveraging professional expertise, you can significantly reduce the burden of these financial setbacks.

AMS is ready to be your trusted partner in battling recoupment requests. With our advanced billing solutions, expert support, and comprehensive training, we empower your practice to handle recoupment challenges with confidence. 

Don’t let recoupment requests disrupt your service delivery and financial stability. Contact AMS Solutions today to learn more about how we can help make your billing processes more efficient, and safeguard your revenue against unnecessary losses. 

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March 21, 2024 by Mike Moffit 0 Comments

Urgent care facilities operate in a fast-paced environment where efficient billing processes are crucial for financial stability and operational success. The decision to hire a billing company is significant, impacting both the financial health of the facility and the quality of patient care. 

Outsourcing billing can offer expertise and efficiency but comes with considerations like cost and control. In this post, we’ll be digging into the advantages and disadvantages of engaging a billing company for urgent care facilities, helping owners and managers make more informed decisions about their billing operations and their practice as a whole.

Pros of Hiring a Billing Company

Expertise in Urgent Care Billing and Coding

Billing companies specialize in the intricacies of medical billing and coding, particularly in the urgent care setting. Their expertise ensures that claims are accurately coded and submitted promptly, reducing the risk of denials and improving revenue flow. This specialization is critical in urgent care, where diverse treatments and rapid patient turnover require precise and efficient billing processes.

Enhanced Revenue Cycle Management

A professional billing company brings streamlined processes and sophisticated technology to manage the revenue cycle effectively. This includes tracking claims, managing accounts receivable, and ensuring timely payment. Their systems are designed to minimize errors and optimize billing operations, leading to improved cash flow and financial performance for the urgent care facility.

Focus on Patient Care and Operational Efficiency

Outsourcing billing allows urgent care providers to concentrate on their primary mission: delivering high-quality patient care. It reduces the administrative burden on healthcare professionals and staff, enabling them to focus more on patient reactions and clinical duties. 

Additionally, it can lead to better operational efficiency, as the urgent care facility can allocate resources and space that would otherwise be dedicated to an in-house billing department to other critical areas of patient care and service expansion.

Cons of Hiring a Billing Company

Potential Costs and Fees

While outsourcing billing can lead to increased revenue and efficiency, it comes with direct costs. Billing companies typically charge a percentage of the collections they process, which can be substantial depending on the volume and value of claims. 

For some urgent care facilities, especially smaller ones, these fees may be a significant consideration, impacting the overall cost-benefit analysis of outsourcing billing services.

Loss of Direct Control

Hiring a billing company means entrusting a crucial aspect of the facility’s operations to an external entity. This arrangement can lead to concerns about losing direct control over billing processes and financial management. 

Urgent care managers may feel distanced from the day-to-day handling of billing, which can affect their ability to oversee and respond quickly to billing-related issues or changes in revenue patterns.

Challenges Finding a Compatible Billing Partner

Not all billing companies are created equal, and finding one that aligns well with an urgent care facility’s specific needs and expectations can be challenging.

Issues like mismatched communication styles, differing priorities, and incompatible billing practices can arise, potentially affecting the efficiency and effectiveness of the billing process. This means urgent care facilities have to conduct thorough research and vetting to ensure that the billing company they choose is a good fit for their operational model and culture.

Partner With AMS Solutions for Urgent Care Billing Success

Choosing AMS Solutions for your urgent care billing needs means aligning with a partner dedicated to maximizing your financial performance while allowing you to focus on patient care. Our expertise in urgent care billing and coding, combined with efficient revenue cycle management, addresses the complexities of the healthcare financial landscape. Contact AMS Solutions today to discuss the needs of your practice, and we’ll tell you how we can help.

March 11, 2024 by AMS Solutions 0 Comments

Few fields move quicker than healthcare, and when it comes to primary care practices, managing the financial side of a practice can be as complex as diagnosing and treating patients. With the ever-changing landscape of healthcare regulations and insurance protocols, billing has become a significant challenge for many practices. This complexity often leads to the question: Should I hire a billing company for my primary care practice? 

In this post, we’re going to look at how hiring a billing company can streamline the financial operations of a practice. How it can help reduce the burdens of in-house billing, allowing healthcare providers to focus on patient care rather than paperwork.

The Challenges of In-House Billing

Effectively managing in-house billing for a primary care setting is loaded with challenges. First and foremost is the sheer complexity of medical billing, which requires substantial knowledge of billing codes and compliance standards and requirements. 

In-house staff must stay up-to-date with the latest billing regulations and insurance requirements, which can be a daunting task. Not only that, but the process itself is a significant drain on time and resources that could be better allocated to caring for patients and growing the practice. 

In-house billing also opens the door to potential errors, which can range from incorrect coding to missed billing opportunities, each of which has the potential to be responsible for delayed payments or outright denials from insurance companies.

In the big picture, these errors don’t just mean lost revenue, hampering the financial health of the practice, but they also require additional time to rectify, taking away even more resources from core medical activities.

Finally, the requirement to maintain compliance with healthcare laws and regulations adds an extra layer of complexity and expense, making in-house billing a risky and relatively stressful workload for most primary care practices. 

Benefits of Hiring a Billing Company

Outsourcing to a billing company offers numerous advantages for primary care practices. Firstly, it brings expertise and experience to the table, ensuring that billing is handled by specialists who are up-to-date with the latest healthcare regulations and insurance policies. This expertise lowers the chance of billing errors and compliance issues. 

Financially, hiring a billing company can be more cost-effective than managing billing in-house. It eliminates the need for extensive billing staff, costly training programs, and the investment in billing software and hardware. Billing companies will often operate on a percentage of their collections, which gives them a significant incentive to maximize the practice’s revenue.

Additionally, companies that specialize in billing already have the resources and infrastructure to manage billing processes efficiently. They can also typically scale their services to match the growth and needs of the practice. They use advanced technology and analytics to track billing patterns and identify areas for improvement, which can lead to increased revenue and more efficient practice operations.

On top of these operational benefits, outsourcing billing allows primary care providers to focus on what matters the most: caring for their patients. Lowering the administrative burden allows healthcare professionals to dedicate more resources to delivering leading medical services, and growing patient satisfaction 

Trust AMS Solutions for Top-Tier Primary Care Billing

Choosing to partner with AMS for your primary care medical billing needs means your practice will be embracing efficiency, expertise, and financial health. We bring you a proven track record of maximizing revenue while simultaneously streamlining billing processes, letting you and your staff pour your focus into the delivery of excellent patient care. Don’t let the distraction and liability of in-house billing hold back your practice, reach out to AMS Solutions today to get started.

February 21, 2024 by AMS Solutions 0 Comments

There are many elements to your practice’s revenue cycle management, but one of the central players is the accounts receivable or A/R, as we call it. From the moment a patient’s invoice goes out the door, the clock starts ticking! Understanding how time is a crucial factor in your accounts receivable management can help optimize your revenue and avoid financial losses.

What Is Accounts Receivable?

Accounts receivable (A/R) are the invoices or reimbursements owed to your medical practice, hospital or healthcare organization. Once your medical billing team submits a claim to a health insurance company or charges a patient on your behalf, the A/R process begins. After the bill is reimbursed to your practice, the account is no longer in A/R. 

The longer an account stays in A/R, the less money your practice collects. If this metric piles up and after writing off “bad debt”, your business’s lost revenue will increase, resulting in less cash flow to maintain operations and continue providing care to your patients.

Accounts Receivable Aging

Aging in A/R is a metric used in healthcare revenue cycle management to track the time of outstanding accounts receivable. It is a vital report that categorizes outstanding invoices by the length of time they have been unpaid. This allows to identify overdue accounts, how long they have been outstanding and the data obtained is critical for managing cash flow, identifying trends in payment patterns, prioritizing collections efforts and keeping track of your revenue cycle’s health.

In healthcare RCM, we categorize A/R based on timeframes, usually in 30-day buckets:

  • 1-30 days
  • 31-60 days
  • 61-90 days
  • 91-120 days
  • 120+ days

Our RCM industry experts recommend keeping your average days in A/R to 35 or less and the unpaid claims older than 90 days in 10% or less.

Trust in Medical Billing professionals to handle your A/R

At AMS Solutions, we count on a team of experts at your service that will work strategically implementing actions during key windows while managing your Accounts Receivable — No matter the size: From solo private practices, clinics and hospitals to large healthcare organizations in the United States. Learn more about AMS Solutions’ RCM and medical billing services by scheduling a quick intro call.

February 2, 2024 by AMS Solutions 0 Comments

We’re in the middle of deductible season: The time of year when most insurance plans reset deductibles back to $0 and in the meantime, patients are responsible for the full contracted rate of their sessions until they have finally met their set amounts. So, what exactly does this mean to your practice?

Deductible season lasts typically the first three to five months of the year, depending on your location, medical specialty and the patient volume you support. This can be really tough on medical providers for a couple of reasons: First, without insurance payments coming in, your practice’s income can take a hit at the beginning of the year. Second, patients will be receiving higher bills than usual and not all of them will feel prepared to pay these amounts, which can become a financial burden for your business if they go overdue on their balances.

Every healthcare provider can implement targeted strategies to navigate their unique challenges and the financial landscape of the season effectively, especially when you partner with a team that knows the ins and outs of Revenue cycle management to keep your practice in good financial health through these months. 

How to avoid delayed income during this time?

Up-to-date Documentation

As a medical provider, you must ensure that all chart notes and other paperwork requested are completed and sent to insurance companies on time, typically before the end of the previous year. This proactive approach ensures steady payments at the beginning of the deductible season and help your medical billing team keep a steady revenue flow more effectively.

Eligibility Check

Always check insurance eligibility for every patient, and this includes Medicare! Look for the following items when checking eligibility and verifying benefits:

  1. Does the patient have an active policy? What is the effective date of that policy?
  2. Does the patient have a co-pay, deductible, coinsurance, or an out-of-pocket maximum?
  3. Does the service you provide require a prior authorization or a referral?
  4. Does the patient have any secondary insurance?

Payment Collection

The easiest and most effective way to minimize the impact of deductible season, is to collect payments as accurately as possible at the time of service. Unless an insurer bars you from billing a patient (such as Medicaid).

Chances of collecting payments for deductible and co-insurance that apply to your service or co-pay balances drops 62% as soon as the patient walks out the front door according to the National Association of Healthcare Access.

Remember to always remind patients (verbally, in writing, or online) of their financial responsibility. Whether it is keeping insurance updated, patient contact information updated, and a friendly reminder that most insurers require the patient to pay the provider some portion of their bill – even Medicare.

Accessible Patient Support

One efficient solution is to offer patients the option to pay balances and submit billing questions online in real time, on their terms and not be limited by business hours or staff availability. This action not only modernizes and improves the patient’s experience but increases patient collection speeds, reduces paper statements and staffing costs while improving operational efficiency.

These strategies will help your medical practice keep a better cash flow during this deductible season. If you find yourself seeking a reliable partner to navigate these challenging times, contact us today for all-inclusive medical billing solutions tailored to your practice.

December 9, 2023 by AMS Solutions 0 Comments

Healthcare is a complex and rapidly evolving field, and one of the most critical elements for any smoothly functioning medical practice is primary care billing and coding. These are the processes vital for making sure that services, treatments, and more are all billed accurately and efficiently, and have a direct impact on both revenue and patient satisfaction. AMS Solutions specializes in simplifying these intricate procedures, offering tailored services that cater to the unique needs of primary care providers. Let’s take a closer look.

What Is Primary Care Billing?

Primary care billing is a foundational, though highly complex, aspect of healthcare management, encompassing a range of services from routine check-ups to the management of chronic conditions. Unlike specialized medical billing, primary care billing deals with a broad spectrum of patient needs, requiring a diverse understanding of billing codes and insurance policies. At the heart of this process is the need for accuracy and promptness, ensuring that healthcare providers are reimbursed for their services without delay.

Effective primary care billing hinges on a deep comprehension of the latest billing guidelines and regulations. It’s not just about submitting claims; it’s about understanding the intricacies of insurance plans, patient eligibility, and the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare policies. This is where AMS Solutions shines, offering expertise and technology-driven solutions that streamline billing processes, reducing errors and enhancing overall efficiency.

Key Guidelines for Primary Care Coding

Primary care coding is a detailed and precise process that demands a thorough understanding of medical terminology and coding systems. This is where specific guidelines come into play, guiding primary care providers in accurately coding diagnoses and procedures. Making sure these codes are correctly applied is a major part of keeping reimbursement rates and compliance up to par. 

One of the key elements in primary care coding is the use of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) codes, which must be updated regularly to reflect the latest medical findings and treatments. In addition, primary care practices must stay abreast of the Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes, which relate to the various medical, surgical, and diagnostic services offered. Staying informed and compliant with these coding standards is a demanding task, but it’s crucial for the financial health of any primary care practice.

Challenges in Primary Care Billing and Coding

Despite the best efforts of healthcare providers, primary care billing and coding can present several challenges. Common issues include:

  • Coding Errors: Misapplying codes is a frequent issue that can lead to claim rejections.
  • Undercoding and Overcoding: Undercoding results in lost revenue, while overcoding can trigger audits and lead to penalties.
  • Constantly Changing Regulations: Keeping up with these changes is crucial to ensure compliance and prevent legal issues. This requires ongoing training and updates, which can be resource-intensive.
  • Navigating Insurance Policies: Dealing with various insurance plans and understanding their specific policies and coverage limitations is a significant challenge.

Best Practices for Effective Billing and Coding

Adopting best practices in primary care billing and coding is essential for maintaining efficiency and accuracy. These include:

  • Regularly training staff on the latest coding updates.
  • Implementing thorough documentation practices.
  • Using advanced billing software for accuracy and efficiency.

These strategies help in minimizing errors and optimizing revenue.

Trust AMS Solutions to be Your Partner in Primary Care Billing and Coding

While the primary care billing and coding space can be complex for a small or medium-sized practice to effectively navigate, we make it simple and reliable. Our expertise ensures that your practice’s billing and coding are handled proficiently, freeing you to focus on patient care. Partner with AMS Solutions for seamless, efficient billing and coding solutions tailored to your practice’s needs. Reach out today to discuss your organization’s needs and to get started.

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