Technology: Make the switch

A. Regulatory issues, reduced reimbursements and competitive pressures are necessitating that HME providers use advanced technology solutions with robust business automation capabilities to reduce the time, money and labor associated with running their business. Historically, many HME providers have used technology solutions to only solve basic claims billing and reimbursement initiatives, and they have typically relied on manual processes to connect with industry partners. Today, providers need to implement modern technology solutions that can evolve and grow beyond billing to enable automation of additional business processes and support emerging interoperability demands. For example, one effective business automation objective could be the automation of referral and order processes to reduce errors and labor required to process new orders. 

Additionally, business automation objectives should not solely be aimed at cost reduction, but should also enable providers to generate additional revenue. For example, we have seen a tremendous uptick in providers implementing automated solutions for traditional high-touch processes like patient collections. By automating patient-pay processes, you can enable a highly-proficient and professional approach to recover otherwise lost revenues that will immediately improve cash flow, increase patient communication, and allow billing staff more time to work on higher payoff activities.

As healthcare and technology continue to evolve, organizations that have the flexibility to adapt will thrive. If you have business processes that are manual today, there are solutions to help with automation. I encourage you to take steps now to partner with a software vendor that can help you streamline your current operations and prepare for the critical, interconnected environment.

Jana Macon is vice president of strategic services for Brightree. Reach her at jmacon@brightree.com.