Collecting copayments and outstanding balances at the window is critical to surviving and thriving in today’s challenging practice management environment. There are two important reasons that you should encourage your staff to collect during face-to-face time:

* Copays are now $20 to $50 in many plans, not the $5 they once were. This is significant revenue.

* Collecting copays after a patient has left your office is not only difficult, but expensive.

Software is available that can provide you with a daily update of the payment records of every patient who is scheduled to be seen on any particular day (figure). Your staff should make an effort to collect these balances at the window so that you can minimize your practice’s collection-service fees for large unpaid balances as well as the expenses associated with pursuing smaller balances. You might also consider posting a sign in your reception area that advises patients, “If you are unable to remit your copay today, please see the receptionist so we can reschedule your appointment.”