- Identify whether or the patient is new, existing or a referral
- Identify the specific reason for the patient visit
- Record the patient’s full name as it is spelled on his/her insurance card
- Verify whether there has been any change in the patient’s health insurance information (For a return or established patient)
- Request any missing or incorrect patient information previously received
- Make a copy of the patient’s health insurance card and one picture ID
- Collect the patient’s contact information and his/her preferred place of contact
- Review the practice’s payment policy with the patient
- Indicate what types of payment forms are accepted by the practice
- Collect or remind the patient of any outstanding balance
- Request that the patient complete the history form (new patients and update every 6 months to a year)
- Identify any additional practice policies (i.e., prescription refills, no-shows, etc.)
- Explain and distribute the practice’s payment and privacy policies
- Explain and receive a signed acknowledgement from the patient that should include the practice’s policies on patient billing, primary and secondary payer processing and patient payment expectations.
- Obtain the signed notice of privacy practices (required under HIPAA)
- Explain when and how test results will be communicated back to the patient and receive a signed waiver that acknowledges if the patient gives permission for leaving test results on an answering machine or in a voice mail
- Explain and collect the patient’s co-payment
- and/or deductible.
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