Wiki Patient Statements. Help!

[JeremiahZug]

Is it legal to send patient statements up to 6 months after the date of service for the first time?

I am working with a provider who had been outsourcing billing to an individual. The biller just sent out statements for services rendered in January, some of those bills totaled $700+. Is there a regulation that defines when a biller sends patient statements relative to the DOS?

 

[thomas7331]

Time limits on debt collection are usually regulated by states, so you might want to research your state's particular laws. However, most states allow 3 or more years to attempt to collect a debt - I really doubt that there would be any law prohibiting you from sending a statement after only six months. If you're concerned about the negative customer service impact on the patients, you might consider enclosing a note of explanation or apology for the delay with your statements to try to head off any complaints.