More expensive, high-deductible insurance plans are growing and resulting in higher patient debt and the inability of patients to pay their medical bills. Hospitals and physicians are taking a more aggressive approach to collecting from patients. Hospitals have started a proactive approach by screening patients (prior to procedures) to determine their willingness and ability to pay. Some Hospitals are also helping patients determine if they qualify for charity care or publicly subsidized coverage. Engaging collection agencies and filing collection lawsuits against patients is becoming more and more prevalent as well.
Published by: Modern Healthcare: Harris Meyer June 28, 2016