Look Into EHR Options for Billing Statements
Question: The vendor we used to use to print our paper billing statements just sent us notice that they’re closing. What are our options for sending out statements? I feel like we’re the only practice that still sends paper statements. Alabama Subscriber Answer: Paper statements can be expensive and time-consuming for practices, between the cost of paper, envelopes, stamps, and printer ink, and the logistics of getting billing information onto paper and then into the mail. And many patients are used to conducting most of their finances electronically — they may not even get the paper statement! If you use an electronic health record (EHR) system, many vendors offer to send statements for a flat fee per statement, which may be cheaper because they take advantage of bulk mailing rates. Otherwise, many can send electronic statements, emailed statements, or the ability to pay bills over the phone via an automated system. Check with your EHR system to find options for making your billing practices more efficient, and maybe even cost-effective. Rachel Dorrell, MA, MS, CPC-A, Production Editor, AAPC
