Deductibles are High and Cash is Short! A Deep Dive of How to Design AR Policies with Awareness AND Get the Bill Paid! | Propel Your Revenue…And Team in 2027! [Session 1]-Deductibles are High and Cash is Short! A Deep Dive of How to Design AR Policies with Awareness AND Get the Bill Paid! [REPLAY]

Deductibles are High and Cash is Short! A Deep Dive of How to Design AR Policies with Awareness AND Get the Bill Paid! [REPLAY]

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Video Transcription

Video Summary

The webinar focused on designing patient-friendly accounts receivable policies that improve collections, especially as high-deductible plans and medical debt become more common. Susan Childs emphasized preparing patients for costs early through clear, consistent policies, accurate benefit estimates, convenient payment options, and appropriate payment plans. Staff should explain financial responsibilities respectfully, show empathy, and make the value of the practice clear—while following payer contracts and applicable rules for discounts.<br /><br />The front desk plays a major role in collecting payments, so practices should invest in training, mentoring, and collaboration between front-office and billing teams. Providers should support established financial policies, while managers use relevant reports to show how collection practices affect revenue and staff performance.<br /><br />The presentation also covered financial safeguards, including separating duties, balancing payments, monitoring adjustments and credit balances, and reconciling practice-management records with the general ledger. Patient experience matters: timely care, welcoming communication, privacy, and prompt feedback can influence willingness to pay.<br /><br />During the Q&A, Childs recommended using data to gain provider support, mentoring new front-desk staff, creating stronger front-to-back communication, and moving escalating patient conflicts to a private setting and involving a manager when needed.

Keywords

patient-friendly AR policies

medical collections

high-deductible plans

payment plans

benefit estimates

front desk training

financial safeguards

patient communication

revenue cycle management