Neurology & Pain Management Coding Alert

Using an outside collection agency has its advantages, but it doesn't mean your work with the accounts is finished. If your physician group decides to collect through an outside party, follow these guides for making the most of your working relationship.

Skimping on the information you provide might jeopardize the collection agency's success in getting payment on your outstanding accounts.

Translation: Give the agency as much information as possible to streamline the process and recoup appropriate payments.

Some collection agencies have client-education initiatives in place, says Ron Brown, president of Oklahoma City-based Collection Services International.

Agencies may call you, ask for a few minutes of your time and explain how they work, including the agency's responsibilities, obligations, liabilities and regulations, says Richard Hoffman of Los Angeles Collection Services Inc. Those few minutes are typically well spent -- yielding a better return on collections.

These tips will help you get the best results possible from your collection agency:

- Don't add fees to the account to avoid paying commissions unless (1) the contract calls for collection fees and (2) state law allows such fees.

- Provide the agency with enough information for its representatives to get on the phone and collect the account.

- Provide the agency with enough timely information for its representatives to address a patient who disputes the debt.

- Notify the agency if you receive a bankruptcy notice pertaining to an account.

- Don't assign the same accounts to multiple agencies.

- Tell the agency when a patient pays your practice directly.

- Work with the agency if a patient complains to your practice.

Tip: A high-quality, compliance-focused collection agency will take the initiative to provide you with the information you need to form a profitable, efficient relationship with the agency. If an agency simply asks you for your accounts, you-d be wise to keep looking.