The best collection method is avoiding collections. During the consultation and new patient orientation, include a thorough explanation of the practice’s financial policies. Parents should be “trained” immediately that overdue monthly payments aren’t acceptable. Receiving a phone call when they are one day overdue reinforces this message to parents. Another way to avoid collection problems is to help parents arrange for outside patient financing.

Whitepaper Wednesday: For more on this subject, download Dr. Levin’s free whitepaper “The 9 Areas of Expertise: Collections” by clicking here.