Patient collections should begin at the very start of the revenue cycle during patient registration and check-in. This is when eligibility is verified, cost estimates are shared, and financial responsibility is clearly communicated. Starting collections upfront drives transparency, reduces billing surprises, and prevents balances from aging into uncollectible debt later in the cycle.
Registration and Eligibility Verification
The first opportunity for collections occurs when patients provide demographic and insurance information. Verifying eligibility in real time allows practices to confirm coverage, calculate deductibles, and identify out‑of‑pocket costs before services are rendered.
Cost Estimation and Financial Counseling
Sharing accurate cost estimates at check‑in builds trust and prepares patients for their financial responsibility. AI‑driven tools can calculate deductibles, co‑pays, and coinsurance instantly, enabling staff to collect partial or full payments upfront.
Point-of-Service Collections
Collecting balances at the time of service is one of the most effective strategies. Patients are more likely to pay when expectations are clear and convenient payment options are available. This reduces the risk of balances aging past 90 days, where collection rates drop significantly.
Post-Visit Follow-Up
For balances not collected upfront, automated reminders and flexible payment plans should begin immediately after the visit. Timely communication prevents accounts from slipping into delinquency and improves overall collection success.
Impact on Revenue Cycle Performance
Beginning collections early shortens the revenue cycle, reduces administrative burden, and increases cash flow. Practices that delay collections until after claims are processed often face higher denial rates, slower reimbursements, and greater revenue leakage.
Conclusion
Patient collections should begin at registration and check‑in, not after claims are processed. By verifying eligibility, providing cost estimates, and collecting payments upfront, practices reduce revenue leakage and improve patient satisfaction. In short, early collections transform the revenue cycle into a proactive, transparent process that safeguards financial health.
