subject: 7 Tips For Medical Billing Specialists [print this page] If you are new to the medical billing field, here are seven tips to keeping your medical office billing in tip-top shape.
1-Get to know your medical office's EMR solution. Every time you start a new job, chances are high these days that you'll end up at an office that uses a different Electronic Medical Records software solution (or non-software online solution). Each EMR offers different customizable solutions, and all have their little quirks. It may mean that you'll have to take some online classes at home in your spare time, but learning your doctor's EMR is essential. You need to know it backwards and forwards.
2-Reacquaint yourself with HIPPA regulations every few years, since they change from time to time. It is critical that your billing work is 100 percent HIPPA compliant, and that all patient security is guarded appropriately.
3-Keep up to date on advanced accounts receivable management, and make sure that all staff members understand and use systems the same way.
4-Research alternate payment methods (such as monthly payment options), and keep in mind the current economic condition as you discuss payment with patients. If your doctor office offers charitable care, make sure you understand the requirements for this carefully.
5-If you have moved from another state, you will likely need to learn about new insurance companies. All of the information you learn about various insurance companies will be very useful in dealing with insurance carriers and submitting patient charges. The more you know about the insurance companies your patients use and the insurance companies' policies and preferred methods of submitting claims and other forms, the easier your job will be and the more efficient you will be at work.
6-Make sure that your EMR and Medical Billing Software maximize productivity while still making time for future growth. You need to set up software or EMR systems at a capacity that is slightly above that which you are currently using, so that it allows for growth. Remember that at times of growth, you will be busier than ever and you will have the least amount of extra time to reconfigure EMR and medical billing software. Plan now for future growth.
7-Make sure that all databases are effectively divided and organized in such a way that makes it easy for others to learn the system. For example, databases for patient billing should be separated from the database for medical office overhead and supplies purchases.
