When someone calls to make a dental appointment, they rarely understand the insurance verification process. Sometimes, they may not even be aware of what their plan covers or what its limitations are. This is why following correct insurance verification guidelines is key for all dental practices. By confirming the insured individual’s plan and answering their questions prior to an appointment, you can rest assured knowing that payments will be collected. While your main purpose as a practice is to provide dental services, you also need to operate as a business. For more detailed information, this guide outlines best practices for dental insurance verification.
Collect the Right Information
In order to complete the insurance verification process, you will need to gather correct information from the patient. Here’s a list of some of the information you will need to collect from your patients:
- Patient name and DOB
- Name of the primary-insured individual
- Social security number of primary-insured individual
- ID and group number
- Insurance carrier name
- Insurance carrier’s contact information
Submit the data into your practice management software and communicate with your patient throughout. Ideally, there shouldn’t be any surprises in store for them after their appointment. Ensure that they are eligible and that the services they request are covered by their carrier. In addition, make sure they understand what their financial responsibilities will likely be.
Aim for a $0 Balance System
If the insurance verification process is successful, then patients are more likely to be presented with an accurate dollar amount that they are responsible for. From there, it is easy to determine what the patient owes and you won’t need to send them any invoices after an appointment. If all goes to plan, your balance should return to zero. Failed insurance verification, on the other hand, can lead to frustrating delays and profit loss. In addition, resolving this requires a significant amount of time and energy that could be diverted to other operational tasks. Always verify the patient’s insurance before the appointment and communicate with them to keep your ledger in good standing.
Use an Automated System
Sometimes, it can be tricky to keep up with your insurance verification needs. At a busy dental practice, staff members have enough on their plate already. With the help of APEX Reimbursement, you can utilize an automated system that improves efficiency and boosts workplace morale. Verifying insurance can be a monotonous process at times. By automating this task, your employees can focus on the patient in front of them instead. Additionally, by increasing the speed of your verification process, your front office workers will be able to make appointments faster and without hassle.
Do you need further assistance with insurance verification? Contact us today and we’ll be in touch with you as soon as possible.
APEX Reimbursement Specialists Can Help with Insurance Verification
Whether you need assistance improving your insurance verification process or have questions about our suite of services, APEX Reimbursement Specialists can 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.