Using credit cards for unpaid bills

[Guest guest]

A few weeks ago I asked folks if they had any experience requiring new patients to give a credit card number at their first visit to cover any unpaid portions. The only response I got said she would run from a practice that asked this. Interestingly, it has been working quite well. I am a one person office with the exception of my billing and so I am able to explain my financial policy to people myself at their first visit. I tell them that I do not have the time in my micropractice to verify everyone's insurance and so if the visit turns out to be an uncovered service or their deductible hasn't been met I will charge their card. I inform them that I will call them first and send a receipt. People have been perfectly happy and understanding with this policy. Just thought I would let you all know the outcome. Maggie Carpenter, MD www.drmaggiecarpenter.com Brooklyn, NY