Create a system to go after outstanding balances

Set up a timetable for handling account balances as they reach certain ages. For example, at 35 days, send a letter that asks patients to pay the remainder of the balance within 10 days. At 45 days, call the patients as a reminder of the debt and to offer a payment plan. At 55 days, take more extreme measures (e.g., involving a collection agency).

Once you determine which aged balances to tackle, you must go about obtaining them in the appropriate manner. This could mean taking steps internally (e.g., making collections calls, sending letters, or offering discounts) or externally (e.g., enlisting a collection agency or collecting through bankruptcy court or the deceased patient's estate). The appropriate method will vary from practice to practice.