Each time the subject of credit cards on file comes up – as it did in my recent online column "Your 2012 Resolution -  Stop Extending Credit." I am inundated with questions, comments, and requests for copies of the letter we give to patients explaining our credit card policy. The column was the most popular yet; as one of my editors put it,... »

For as long as I have been writing this column, I have stressed that aggressive management of accounts receivable is the key to any practice’s financial health; and yet, all these years later, accounts receivable is still the subject that generates the most questions.

Okay, folks, let’s go over it one more time: Basically, physicians extend more credit... »

Pop quiz: How long have I been writing that private medical practices are businesses, whether we like it or not; and like any other business, they require consistent, sensible business management?

If you answered that I've been harping on that point from the very beginning, congratulations; you're a long-time reader. And yet, the most basic and important... »

It doesn't occur to most physicians that a supplier might be ripping them off; but if adequate purchase controls are not in place, then it's possible, and even likely. Be aware of the common scams, how to avoid them, and the options if you're victimized.

Con artists take advantage of unsuspecting employees (and physicians) and lax purchasing procedures.... »

Management of accounts receivable is a significant issue in all private offices, and I've addressed it from multiple angles in previous columns.

In most cases, the patient-owed portion can be kept out of the accounts receivable in the first place. Collect as much as possible at the time of service, even if you have to offer a discount for immediate... »

As the “Great Recession” continues, there is much discussion on medical forums about how to increase cash flow, decrease administrative expenses, and deal with ever-increasing numbers of unemployed and uninsured patients.

Extending discounts to patients who pay at the time of service or pay out of pocket is one effective way of addressing all three of... »

Since passage of the health care reform bill in March, there has been considerable discussion in medical periodicals, forums, and blogs about the dramatic changes that will be taking place.

At least one thing—prior authorizations—will not change, because the legislation did not address it.

Lawmakers have offered no public explanation for ignoring such a... »