Epic has recently introduced functionality within MyChart that increases transparency and control for your patients while improving payment collections for providers. Patients with accounts in bad debt will now be able to see those outstanding balances directly in MyChart, giving them a better view of what is owed for the services they have received. In this article we will discuss the recent MyChart update to show bad debt accounts within MyChart, as well as best practices when utilizing this option.
MyChart Bad Debt Update
In previous releases of MyChart, patients were only able to see accounts that are active with the provider, not those sent to a collection agency. Now that providers can use MyChart for bad debt balances, patients are able to get a clear view of where their accounts stand. By clearly showing if an account is in collections, they have a better understanding of how to work through their payments.
The new release of MyChart will have a clear indicator showing patients what portion of their balance is with a collection agency, and can view collection agency names and contact information right in MyChart. The Billing Summary activity, Billing Details page, and the balance payment workflow will help guarantors follow up on their accounts. Partial payments are prompted to choose which account to pay toward, which increases transparency and allows them to pay off accounts in collections directly, saving them from contacting your collection partner. This all happens when you utilize MyChart for bad debt, allowing your collection partner to focus on the accounts that require more attention.
Best Practices Utilizing MyChart for Bad Debt
If your facility chooses to utilize the new functionality within MyChart for bad debt, Americollect has some best practices that may help make MyChart collections run smoothly.
- Unique Phone Number – By using a number that differs from your normal collection practices, you not only better track these patients, but your collection partner is able to ensure these calls are taken quickly.
- Website Link – by including a link to your collection partner’s website, your patients are quickly and securely able to view more information. By linking directly from your MyChart page, you give your patients the peace of mind of knowing that the website they are visiting is legitimate and their information is secure.
These simple best practices for utilizing MyChart for bad debt can help reduce the financial stress and surprise of medical debt collections while making it more convenient and accessible for your patients. This convenience can also help reduce bad debt by giving patients better control over their finances.
Conclusion
Utilizing MyChart for bad debt balances increases transparency and control for your patients while improving your payment collections. Following the best practices of a unique phone number and a website link for more information can help improve your processes. If you have questions about how to utilize this process, reach out to your Americollect contact today.
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