Practices should review patient insurance participation each year. The doctor and financial coordinator should be aware of important data such as what percentage of total practice collections is generated by insurance, which insurance plans pay the highest and lowest reimbursement rates, and which plans are provided by local employers. This information will help the practice make the best decisions regarding insurance participation.
Communicate information about dental insurance and copays. Contact insurance companies in advance of patient treatment for the estimated reimbursement. By doing so, the front desk coordinator can give patients an idea of the expected fee based on information provided by the insurance company.
Don't forget to help patients with their insurance. Dental insurance coverage is a source of anxiety for many people. Anything you can do to alleviate that anxiety is a win for the practice. When you solve a problem for patients, they remember it and often will tell their friends about the exceptional service they received at your practice.
Dr. Roger P. Levin is CEO of Levin Group, a leading practice management and marketing consulting firm. To contact him or to join the 40,000 dental professionals who receive his Practice Production Tip of the Day, visit LevinGroup.com or email [email protected].
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