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It’s Time to Recall Your Skin Cancer Patients

Inga C. Ellzey, RHIA, MPA, CDC

By June 27, 2022April 20th, 2023No Comments

Since the pandemic started in March 2020, going to the doctor’s office has been challenging. Seeing patients has been limited to severe problems. As many states are now lifting the restrictions, it is time to again make appointments for patients with a personal history of Basal Cell Carcinoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma, Malignant Melanoma, dysplastic nevus, as well as other cancerous and pre-cancers diagnoses.

Recalls are made for patients who have not been seen in the past 12-month period. However, due to the constraints by Federal and State regulations regarding interactions with medical facilities and providers, it is recommended that practices go back 24 months.

Most Practice Management systems make it easy to merge names with letters reducing the time it takes to complete the recall project. The dermatology practice must assure recalled patients that all necessary precautions have been taken to limit exposure to COVID and other related viruses. Below is a sample recall letter.

Finally, encourage a seamless check-in process that is efficient and patient-friendly. The best way to accomplish this is by providing a printed summary of what already exists in your system regarding personal and insurance information. This will make sure that patient records are updated. Policies for account updates should be directed towards what is most stress-free for the patient. It should not be what is easiest for the staff. Small changes like this can make a rewarding experience for the patient.

Read more from our published resources:
A Surefire Way to Increase Practice Income and Reduce Overhead in 2022
Where is your Money Hiding?

About Inga Ellzey and our Dermatology Billing Services

After 27 years of perfecting billing processes, Inga Ellzey continues to be the nation’s leading expert in dermatology billing. Our billing service serves over 100 dermatology practices in 37 states without utilizing any offshore labor. Our goal is to make sure that you and your patients receive the most competent and professional service available on the market today.

If you are interested in speaking with our company about how we can maximize your collections while also improving your process, please contact us or call 888-434-4374.

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