Did you know that a whopping 88% of dentists are concerned about their patient’s ability to pay? Additionally, 86% of dentists are worried about practice revenue. Both of these issues are directly tied to the success (or failure) of your dental billing department. Unfortunately, many dental practices fall for common myths about dental billing and end up paying the price. What misconceptions might be costing you revenue?
Pre-Authorization Guarantees Payment
Obtaining pre-authorization for a procedure means that the patient’s insurance provider has reviewed and approved the necessity of treatment. However, it does not guarantee payment. Changes in the patient’s insurance status, policy limits, or errors in claim submission can still result in non-payment. Always follow up on pre-authorized procedures to ensure that all conditions are met for reimbursement to avoid dental billing mistakes.
Writing Off Balances Is the Best Way to Handle Unpaid Claims
Writing off unpaid claims might seem like an easy solution to clean up your accounts receivable, but it can significantly impact your practice’s profitability. Instead of taking the easy way out, create clear follow-up procedures. This includes things like attempting to collect unpaid balances at the time of service, communicating with patients about their outstanding balances, and possibly employing a collections agency for late payments.
Dental Billing Problems Are Solely the Billing Department’s Fault
Successful billing is a team effort. While the billing department plays a key role, accurate billing starts with proper documentation and coding at the time of service. Dentists, hygienists, and administrative staff must all be diligent in recording accurate and detailed treatment notes. When everyone at your dental practice understands the role that they play in the billing process, they will feel more ownership and responsibility for the results that you get.
Changing Up Billing Is Too Disruptive and Costly
Some dental practices are stuck using outdated or inefficient billing practices because they assume that any alternative will be disruptive and cost too much. While switching billing processes or exploring outsourcing options can be challenging, staying with an underperforming provider can be far more expensive in the long run. If you’re regularly experiencing claim denials or having trouble collecting payments from patients, it may be time to consider a change. We can help you explore other options for dental billing that will increase revenue and decrease stress.
Improve Your Dental Practice Revenue with APEX Reimbursement Specialists
Whether you’re looking for a way to make revenue cycle management at your dental practice easier or hoping to improve your overall patient communication plan, APEX Reimbursement Specialists is here to help. Contact our team today by calling (410) 710-6005. We look forward to working with you to make your practice a more profitable place.