Patient Access

After a brief hiatus, the COVID-19 virus is reemerging, just in time for cold and flu season. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) July numbers show COVID-related hospitalizations are ticking upward. A spokesperson from the agency said this is the first notable acceleration of the illness in 2023. In these challenging times, healthcare providers prepare for the next COVID-19 surge. While the American healthcare system struggled just three years ago to cope with COVID-19 as a black swan event, these organizations now have the perspective that comes from hard-earned experience. They also have the potential benefit of time. It makes sense to take the lessons learned from the 2020 crisis and apply best practices to prepare for a COVID-19 resurgence. A new survey shows healthcare teams still struggling with burnout from the last COVID uptick. By leveraging technology and implementing best practices, providers can streamline processes, improve patient access, and alleviate burdens on healthcare staff. Let's explore how digital solutions such as online self-service scheduling, mobile-first registration, and patient portals can help healthcare organizations prepare for the next wave of COVID-19. COVID lesson #1: Online self-service scheduling offers key benefits for patients and staff During the previous COVID-19 outbreak, online self-service scheduling proved to be crucial in mitigating the spread of the virus. Not only did it improve the experience for patients and healthcare staff, but it also reduced the volume of visitors to emergency rooms and prevented sick individuals from congregating in waiting rooms. While self-service patient registration isn't just for a pandemic, COVID-19 clearly illustrated the critical need for digital patient intake solutions. A recent Experian Health survey showed seven of ten patients prefer self-service appointment scheduling. Forbes says, “Scheduling options are now a must-have feature for hospital and health systems…Health systems that do not offer online patient scheduling will not only be left behind but will be left out.” With the potential for an additional COVID upsurge in the future, health providers must also consider the benefits for staff of offering online patient scheduling options. They include: Fewer manual tasks associated with patient registration Real-time scheduling information that streamlines workflows Reduced patient no-shows Improves team communication and closes care gaps Automates unnecessary administrative functions COVID lesson #2: Mobile-first registration increases patient access and satisfaction The Experian Health State of Patient Access 2023 shows increasing the convenience of patient access is the quickest way to improve customer satisfaction scores. The survey showed access to provider care is challenging post-pandemic; four in ten say access has worsened because of scheduling. These challenges are always more daunting during high utilization—such as during the COVID-19 pandemic. As healthcare providers prepare for a COVID surge during flu season, adopting a mobile-centric registration accelerator solution can empower patients and streamline the registration process. Patients can complete registration safely and conveniently in their homes without spending time in a waiting room. Providers benefit from this online solution with reduced paperwork, automation of manual tasks such as appointment reminders, and a lightened workload. Implementing mobile-first registration not only improves patient satisfaction but also eases the burden on healthcare staff. Patients that use these solutions reduce practice call volumes by 50%. COVID lesson #3: Patient portals streamline communication and engage patients Harnessing technology to streamline processes and alleviate burdensome tasks is crucial. Patient portals are revolutionizing healthcare by empowering patients and lightening the load on the system. The pandemic accelerated the use of patient portals. In 2020, the National Institute of Health (NIH) found less than half of insured adults used these tools. Today, the usage of online patient portals such as PatientSimple is much higher—and on the rise. A recent national survey shows even seniors are getting into online patient portals to access healthcare information; 78% of people aged 50 to 80 now use at least one of these online hubs. Five years ago, researchers say just 51% of this population used these tools. Leveraging a patient portal now before cold and flu season makes sense. Patients can use patient portals to manage common tasks such as: Pay balances up front with an on-file credit card Set up payment plans View test results Generate price estimates View statements and test results online Apply for charity care Communicate with providers The latest research from Experian Health and PYMNTS says two out of three consumers use patient portals to “streamline the medical journey,” while the remainder say they'd use these tools if their provider offered them. Online patient portals increase access and convenience for healthcare customers. However, there are just as many arguments in favor of providers investing in patient portals to benefit their staff.As COVID-19 cases rise, patient portals serve as critical information hubs, streamlining communication between providers and the patients they serve. Self-service portals ease pressure on overburdened care teams and upfront administrative staff. They also integrate with electronic health records (EHRs), streamlining the flow of personal health information (PHI) between providers and patients. It's a more engaging and effective experience for patients that lightens providers' workloads. As we move toward increasing COVID cases this fall, patient portals will be vitally important for everyone involved in the patient journey—including the patients themselves. Learn how Experian Health is helping care providers streamline their efficiencies with digital software and prepare for the next COVID surge.

Finding previously unidentified insurance coverage is a high-stakes treasure hunt for healthcare providers. If patients are unaware of active coverage or eligibility for Medicare and Medicaid, they will be left footing a bill that could have been covered by a payer. If they can't afford it, their account may end up being written off to bad debt, and providers will miss out on reimbursement opportunities, leaving millions of revenue dollars on the table. Hunting down missing or forgotten coverage on the spot is a challenge for providers, particularly if the patient does not have a Social Security Numbers (SSN) or the payers in question do not use SSNs to verify eligibility. It's a problem worth solving though and can improve the patient financial experience while preventing avoidable revenue loss. The shift away from Social Security Numbers Historically, providers have used demographic information like Social Security Numbers (SSN) to verify patient identities and locate coverage information. Without a unique patient identifier, SSNs were a stable way to link a person's health information across multiple health systems and payers. However, the use of SSNs for identification and verification purposes has dropped in recent years due to concerns about patient privacy and the risk of identity theft: SSNs give identity thieves a mechanism to assume a person's identity and access financial information and health records illegally. Moreover, SSNs are unreliable identifiers, as it is possible for more than one person to use the same number. Recognizing the need for more secure and trustworthy identifiers, many payers have moved away from SSNs. In 2018, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services began the process to remove SSN-based Health Insurance Claim Numbers (HICNs) from Medicare cards, replacing them with Medicare Beneficiary Identifiers (MBIs). These are now the primary means of checking a person's identity for Medicare transactions like billing, eligibility status and claim status. Similarly, many health plans also shifted away from using SSNs as primary identifiers, instead opting for member IDs or other secure identifiers to verify and track coverage for their members. Find billable coverage with historical data With demographic searches on the decline, providers need a more efficient and reliable way to search for coverage. As a data-driven company with a historical repository of claims data, Experian Health is uniquely positioned to help providers search for coverage. Combining search best practices, multiple proprietary databases and historical information, Experian Health's Coverage Discovery® locates patients' billable commercial insurances that were unknown or forgotten, and combs through Medicare and Medicaid coverage. This flags accounts that may have been destined as a write-off or charity and maximizes reimbursement revenue by identifying primary, secondary and tertiary coverage. Not only do fewer accounts go to bad-debt collections, but providers can automate the self-pay scrubbing process. In 2022, Coverage Discovery tracked down billable coverage in almost 30% of self-pay accounts and found more than $64.6 billion in corresponding charges. Closing the coverage gap caused by Medicaid disenrollment Coverage Discovery offers another important benefit: helping providers offer additional support to patients on lower incomes who find themselves without Medicaid, at least for a short time, following the end of continuous enrollment. As of July 2023, more than 1.6 million Medicaid enrollees were disenrolled. Providers can use the tool to confirm whether Medicaid coverage remains in place, or to uncover any additional billable government or commercial insurance that could give patients peace of mind. Patient Financial Clearance can also help screen patients for Medicaid eligibility before or at the point of service, then route them to the Medicaid Enrollment team or auto-enroll them in charity care if appropriate. Case study: Read the case study to find out how Luminis Health used Coverage Discovery to locate $240k in billable coverage each month. Leverage technology to locate unidentified coverage Thanks to advanced tools like Coverage Discovery and Patient Financial Clearance, it's much easier for providers to locate alternative coverage options for patients, using multiple sources of data. These tools leverage secure identifiers and comprehensive searches across databases, allowing providers to reclaim revenue that may otherwise go unclaimed, and reassuring patients that they won't be left holding an unexpected bill. Find out more about how Coverage Discovery can help find previously unidentified coverage and reduce bad debt.

Too often, resource pressures force providers to treat revenue cycle management as a reactive process. But with avoidable denials leaving thousands of dollars on the table, fixing problems after the fact is often a more expensive strategy. Investing in prevention on the front end can help providers minimize the risk of future revenue loss. This article looks at how providers can use automated prior authorizations to drive front-end revenue cycle growth, and fix revenue leaks before the denial dam bursts. Understanding the front-end of the revenue cycle Revenue cycle management includes all the activities involved in making sure hospitals and health systems get paid for their services. The front end of the revenue cycle includes the non-clinical processes that take place before a patient receives care, broadly referred to as 'patient access.' This can be broken into four stages: Scheduling and registering for care, including checking all patient information is current and correct Verification of insurance eligibility and benefits, to ensure planned services will be covered by the patient's plan Obtaining prior authorizations, to prevent claim denials Collection of co-pays and deductibles from patients before or at the point of service. Billing and claims management workflows must be set up so patients, payers and front- and back-office teams can share the information needed to expedite reimbursement. Accuracy and efficiency are essential at each stage of the front-end of the revenue cycle to prevent bottlenecks, errors and delays down the line. The longer errors lurk in the workflow, the more opportunities they have to damage the health system's financials. Front-end errors lead to denied claims later and more work for back-end staff Prior authorizations are a prime example: failure to secure the correct authorizations for treatment or services ahead of time can result in claims being rejected by payers. Time-consuming rework compounds the loss with hefty staffing and outsourcing bills. By the time the provider gets the amended paperwork in order, they've lost all leverage with the payer. It's a major concern as denial rates increase. Here are a few common prior authorization pitfalls to watch out for: The patient provides incorrect insurance information, which means the provider may fail to seek authorization from the right payer Inefficient operations and poorly defined processes allow inconsistencies and admin errors, such as wrong billing codes or misspelled names, to pass through the system undetected Frequent changes to payer requirements can be missed, so providers are working with outdated information Authorizations aren't obtained for the patient's entire treatment plan, leading to rework and treatment delays. A survey by the Association for Clinical Oncology found that 96% of respondents had seen a patient's care delayed because of prior authorization issues. Beyond these worrying harms to patients, the survey also revealed that 47% of practices spent more than 40 hours a week dealing with authorizations. Exploring solutions that will speed up prior authorizations can mitigate or eliminate these errors and delays. Front-end revenue growth starts with efficient prior authorizations As one of the top three reasons for denials given by providers in the State of Claims 2022 survey, prior authorizations are a logical target for front-end improvements. Prior authorization software helps providers get ahead of the above pitfalls by flagging authorization requirements early. Patient access teams can detect and resolve potential errors before they escalate, reducing the risk of rejected claims and appeals. Neeraj Joshi, Director of Product Management, at Experian Health, says that one of the big struggles for healthcare providers is that the prior authorization process is often still manual: “Automation has gained traction in many tasks within the revenue cycle, from patient access to claims management, but shifting to automated prior authorizations could offer one of the biggest returns on investment. Manual authorizations are time-consuming, error-prone and, all too often, a source of miscommunication. Shifting to automated authorization management can eliminate these obstacles and fuel revenue growth.” Experian Health's online prior authorizations solution automates 100% of inquiries, saving valuable staff time. Status checks happen without user intervention. Patient and payer data is auto-filled automatically, and users are guided through the workflow and prompted to make manual interventions only when absolutely necessary. Users can have confidence in the accuracy of the pre-filled data because the tool taps into Experian Health's Knowledgebase, which stores and updates national payer requirements in real-time. Users can also customize local and community rules, so no requirements slip through the net. By reducing costly denials and lowering labor costs, these set the stage for sustainable growth throughout the rest of the revenue cycle. How online prior authorizations can improve end-to-end revenue management Obtaining prior authorizations more efficiently is just the first step toward building a thriving revenue cycle. The promise of fewer denials might steal the headlines, but the benefits of automation resonate throughout downstream processes. For example, an automated online system enhances wider pre-registration processes by giving staff real-time visibility into the likelihood of a treatment being authorized. Staff can verify approval instantly, rather than turning patients away at check-in. This also makes it easier to generate accurate, upfront estimates of what the patient will owe, so they can plan for their own financial obligations. A positive patient experience can lead to faster patient collections and higher retention rates, which both boost revenue growth in the long run. Another ripple effect comes from the early verification of patient and payer information. These processes can surface data errors that, if left unchecked, could impede effective claims and billing workflows. This shows how a single authorization can have an outsized effect on overall revenue management performance – and why it's so important to get authorizations right the first time. Front-end efficiencies lead to a more predictable revenue cycle Providers that choose to use prior authorization software can amplify the benefits by integrating it with other online and automated solutions. Experian Health's prior authorizations tool fits seamlessly with the eCare NEXT® revenue cycle suite, which automates the entire revenue cycle workflow from insurance eligibility verification to secure patient payments. The interoperability of these tools means data can be shared from one system to another with ease, and reports can be generated and viewed on a single dashboard. With better data and analytics, users can make better predictions about their revenue cycle performance and find opportunities for further improvements. Similarly, providers can leverage the predictive power of analytics with AI-based technology. Experian Health's new AI-driven claims management solution, AI Advantage™, uses AI to predict claims that are likely to be denied, based on historical payment patterns. It checks for any undocumented payer adjudication rules, including prior authorization requirements, to make sure no essential information is missing before the claim is submitted. In a recent webinar on the future of claims management, Skylar Earley from Schneck Medical Center shared his experience with the new technology. He attributes the tool's success to its ability to make increasingly accurate predictions: “Since implementing this technology, we're continuing to see AR days decrease at our organization. One result that we're really excited about is seeing the number of authorized outpatient visits increase by about 2.5%. For anyone that deals with prior authorizations and denials related to prior authorizations, this is incredibly promising.” As authorization requirements increase in volume and complexity, providers need to be proactive in their response. Automation and digital technology can arm providers with the data and tools they need to speed up prior authorizations and drive revenue growth from step one in the revenue cycle. Find out more about how prior authorization software can support efficient front-end revenue cycle processes by creating opportunities to maximize cash flow from the start.

Could patient access software be the 'most valuable player' in healthcare? Experian Health's annual State of Patient Access surveys show an upward trend in the use of digital tools and software to help minimize the hoops patients must jump through to access care. In the most recent, 46% of providers said they expected to increase their digital investment over the next six months. The business advantages around increased capacity, reduced cancellations, improved data accuracy and higher patient satisfaction make a strong case for investing in patient access software. This article looks at how patient access tools can solve for some of the most stubborn problems in patient scheduling, registration and payments. Finding the formula for frictionless patient access Revenue cycle management comes down to minimizing service utilization while maximizing revenue potential. This starts with patient access. Efficient scheduling, intake and financial processes means more patients get better care, sooner – and providers get paid for their services without delay. Patient access software includes a range of digital and self-service tools that allow patients to complete administrative patient intake tasks with ease. Appointment management, patient registration, patient outreach, and patient estimates and billing are common use cases for patient access software. These solutions use in-depth data and automation to pre-fill patient information, check data for accuracy and completeness, tailor patient communications and accelerate workflows. Advances in AI and machine learning are creating new opportunities to remove obstacles in patient access and boost patient satisfaction. 5 problems that can be solved with patient access software 1. Painfully slow scheduling operations  Problem: Too often, patient access processes are complex and time-consuming. Over time, small frustrations from errors, delays, and repetitive manual tasks can cause a significant decline in the patient experience. It's unsurprising that 56% of patients want digital options to manage care and speed things up. Solution: Patient access software makes it easier for patients to see their doctor without delay. For example, rather than being forced to call the provider's office and wait for an agent to check for an available slot, patients can use online scheduling software to book, reschedule and cancel appointments whenever suits them best. This also alleviates call center volumes, easing pressure on staff. 2. Error-prone registration processes Problem: Manual intake and registration systems are vulnerable to quality issues, resulting in denied claims, increased admin costs and delayed access to care. Illegible writing, incomplete insurance information and missing forms mean patients and staff must spend more time going back and forth to find and fix mistakes. And at the extreme end of the spectrum, data errors can lead to medical errors, with life-or-death consequences. Solution: Automated patient registration can pull patient data from reliable sources and fill out basic details ahead of time, reducing the need for manual data entry. Preventing avoidable errors in this way improves communication, workflows and profitability. For example, Registration Accelerator is a text-to-mobile patient intake solution that allows patients to complete appointment registration from the comfort of home. The patient takes a photo of their insurance card and driver's license, and then optical character recognition (OCR) technology automatically enters the correct information for insurance verification. The patient can review and sign authorization and consent forms, and confirm their appointments all at once, with just a few clicks. 3. Excessive (and growing) admin burdens and staffing shortages Problem: Patient access is admin heavy. This wastes valuable staff time and resources and diverts attention from patient care. With healthcare staffing shortages reaching emergency levels and patient volumes on the rise, providers must find ways to manage workloads while maintaining output. Solution: By automating administrative tasks and expanding self-service options, patient access software takes the pressure off busy teams. In Experian Health's survey, 36% of respondents reported that technological improvements offset staff shortages, by making better use of staff time and lowering operational costs. Automated prior authorizations are a good example of how digital tools can help tame the admin burden. This software generates real-time updates for multiple health plans, so staff no longer need to cross-reference individual payer policies and websites. It uses exception-based workflows and guided work queues to help staff prioritize their activities. Patient access tools can also issue performance reports, so staff can continue to find ways to work more efficiently. Cutting-edge technology also offers a less obvious but equally important competitive advantage – helping providers attract and retain high quality staff. 4. A patient experience that falls short of expectations Problem: Unnecessary administrative obstacles, unclear communication, and slow processes result in subpar patient experiences. More than 6 in 10 patients don't think their experiences have improved much in the last few years, despite the wider availability of digital patient access tools. Providers need a solution urgently, given that 56% of patients would switch providers for a better patient experience. Solution: With automation and self-service digital tools, providers can finally put patients in the driver's seat and deliver the patient-centered experience that has been promised for years. Patients say they want access and payment experiences to be convenient and transparent, with specific examples including: Accurate pre-care estimates Payment plans Digital payment options A multi-purpose portal Mobile access for scheduling, registration, communications and care Alex Harwitz, VP, Digital Front Door at Experian Health, says that while this list may seem daunting, providers have reason to be optimistic about delivering a better patient experience: “Patients want a lot from the digital front door, especially younger and digitally savvy consumers. Speed, convenience and compassion are through-lines in our patient surveys. As expectations increase, so does the pressure on providers to deliver. But the good news is that technology is advancing too. There's a wealth of patient access software ready to help optimize the patient experience. And you don't have to implement them all at once: Experian Health's patient access tools are specifically designed to work independently or in combination, for hassle-free implementation.” 5. Missed revenue opportunities Problem: Missed appointments, billing mistakes and operational inefficiencies lead to avoidable revenue leakage. A significant portion of denied claims occur earlier in the revenue cycle, so improving patient access processes should be top of the list when it comes to optimizing revenue. Solution: Revenue loss in patient access comes down to data errors, poor analytics and workflow inefficiencies. By leveraging the right software, front- and back-office teams can collaborate to resolve issues and enhance decision-making. Digital tools can also improve the patient billing and payment experience, so providers get paid promptly. Upfront price estimates, payment plan recommendations and one-click payment options can make it easier for patients to understand and pay their bills. Implementing transparent and empathetic billing procedures not only enhances patient satisfaction but also accelerates the collection process. With Experian Health's Patient Payment Solutions, providers can collect payments 24/7 via mobile, web and patient portals. Maximizing revenue opportunities while meeting the changing needs and expectations of healthcare consumers calls for smart patient access strategies. Find out more about how Experian Health's patient access software helps healthcare organizations lay the foundations for a solid revenue cycle and a positive patient experience.

Prior authorizations allow health insurers to determine if a patient's planned care is medically necessary and how much of the cost they'll cover. But what began as a well-intentioned process to promote high-quality, cost-effective care has become one of the most time-consuming and expensive manual transactions for providers. Transitioning from manual systems to automated prior authorization software is one way to expedite the decision-making process so patients get the care they need – and providers get paid – without undue delay. Prior authorization software eliminates friction in the pre-approval process Disjointed manual prior authorizations processes place a major administrative burden on staff, who must spend hours filling out forms, gathering information about the patient's medical history, and communicating with insurance companies to submit and track requests. Walking this bureaucratic tightrope delays tests and treatments for patients and often fails to fulfill the promise of cost containment. To streamline the process, providers are increasingly turning to automated prior authorization solutions. Prior authorization software helps providers check whether pre-approval is needed, compile and submit the request, and track payer decisions. It can check requirements in real time and quickly connect staff to the correct payer portal so they can progress without delay or guesswork. Data can be pre-formatted according to the payer's rules, to avoid the roadblocks that pop up without interoperability. Software can monitor performance over time, to drive ongoing improvements and prevent denials and appeals. This helps providers increase operational efficiency, reduce the administrative load, and obtain the payer's decision as soon as possible. Soon, fully electronic prior authorizations may also be a requirement: in December 2022, the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services proposed a new rule to improve and expedite the electronic health information exchange. The Advancing Interoperability and Improving Prior Authorization Processes Proposed Rule would require affected payers to process urgent requests within 72 hours and standard requests within 7 days, beginning January 1, 2026. With more than 35 million prior authorizations submitted to Medicare Advantage plans in a single year (and more than 2 million of those being denied), providers will find these timeframes extremely challenging without electronic systems in place. Manual prior authorizations: creaking under pressure? Prior authorization software may be gathering momentum, but manual processes still dominate: 33% of prior authorizations were fully manual in 2022, barely moving from 34% in 2020. Many providers continue to grapple with the fall-out of inefficient systems, such as: The administrative burden - The American Medical Association estimates that physicians spend an average of nearly two days per week handling prior authorizations while 35% have staff who work exclusively on prior authorizations. As the volume of prior authorizations increases, these time-consuming processes cannot keep up. The communications challenge - Manual communication channels create too many opportunities for information to be misunderstood or misplaced when being passed between providers and payers. Providers' staff find themselves juggling faxes, telephone calls and payer portal log-ins. Without data interoperability, payers and providers end up in data silos where they're not working from the same account information. Delays mean real-time monitoring and decision-making are impossible. The denials problem - With manual processes, providers lack real-time visibility into changing payer rules. This lack of clarity means requirements may be missed or misinterpreted, leading to longer waits for approval and requests being denied. Not only does this have major consequences for patient care, but it also runs the risk of increasing out-of-pocket costs. It's unsurprising that the MGMA members repeatedly say that prior authorizations are the most burdensome regulatory issue they face. The business case for prior authorization software Transitioning from manual to electronic prior authorization processes can help overcome many of these challenges. Providers should focus on three main benefits when making the case for implementing prior authorization software: 1. Faster workflows Revenue cycle management teams are tired of being asked to “do more with less,” but automated prior authorizations actually check this box. This software can increase efficiency by initiating more requests in less time, so staff can spend less time chasing down documentation and reworking denials. It takes charge of monitoring and managing requests, reducing the need for manual follow-up. 2. Easier authorizations management Keeping pace with payer policy changes was a top concern for providers, according to Experian Health's State of Claims Survey 2022. To address this, Experian Health's online authorizations tool gives users access to a central payer database that instantly and automatically syncs with payer updates. Staff no longer need to log into multiple payer portals and cross-reference rules and requests by hand. It integrates customizable client-specific and plan-specific rules for more streamlined and accurate submissions. A guided, exceptions-based workflow gives staff immediate information on whether submissions are pending, denied or authorized. 3. Enhanced features (that go above and beyond manual processes) Prior authorization software not only makes the whole process more efficient and user-friendly, but it also offers additional features that simply aren't possible using manual processes alone. For example, with Experian Health's Prior Authorizations software, an additional post-back service can be integrated with hospital information and patient management systems to share authorization status, number and validity dates and flag any inconsistencies. It can store digital images of payers' responses for future reference. The software supports reconciliation by comparing authorized requests with pre-submission requests, to identify potential discrepancies and prevent denials. Finally, it also provides integrated faxing capabilities, so submissions can be sent to electronic and non-electronic payers using the same system. An increased need for prior authorizations software as the number of authorizations increase As patient volumes and payer policy changes continue to increase, providers will need to find ways to speed up prior authorization processes. Experian Health's State of Claims Survey 2022 found that more than half of providers find it hard to track changes to prior authorization requirements – unsurprising given that Experian identified more than 100,000 payer policy changes between March 2020 and March 2022. Neeraj Joshi, Director of Product Management at Experian Health, says that transitioning to automated prior authorizations will be essential to process requests efficiently at scale: “With prior authorization software, we can help our clients cut decision times to the absolute minimum. Automation reduces processing time and enables real-time tracking of authorizations, which translates to faster, more efficient communication between providers and payers. As authorizations increase, providers should speak to software vendors to explore the opportunities to speed up approvals and expedite the delivery of medical care to patients.” A nationwide survey confirmed that the use of electronic prior authorizations resulted in a shorter decision time. It also found that this advantage could be amplified with better integration into existing workflows. Experian Health clients who already use the eCare NEXT® platform to automate patient management and revenue cycle workflows will find that Prior Authorizations can be integrated seamlessly. This single-vendor solution allows providers to improve efficiency even further for faster processing times – and faster payments. Contact Experian Health today to streamline, simplify and speed up the pre-approval process with prior authorization software.

In today's digital world, it's easy to access information with just a click. But despite being constantly connected, many patients find themselves lacking the vital information they need to navigate their medical journey successfully. Waiting weeks or months for appointments and dealing with confusing medical jargon on forms can create additional stress. Additionally, limited office hours make it difficult for busy patients to receive important information. Closing the patient engagement gap is just as crucial for providers: delays and misunderstandings lead to scheduling gaps, poor productivity, missed reimbursement opportunities and costly no-shows. Automated patient outreach has the potential to eliminate these challenges. By implementing the right strategy, providers can establish better communication with patients, anticipate their needs, optimize care plans, and provide improved patient experiences. This approach allows staff resources to be utilized more efficiently and effectively, resulting in better health outcomes and financial performance. It's a win-win situation for both patients and providers. What is patient outreach? Patient outreach refers to proactive efforts by a healthcare organization to educate, inform and engage patients in their healthcare journey. Effective patient outreach strategies may include sending patients prompts for health checks, appointment reminders, test results, and information about billing and payment. Ideally, communication will be initiated through whichever channel the patient finds most convenient, whether it's a phone call, text message, email or patient portal. If patients are supported to stay engaged in their care, they will be more likely to adhere to care plans and take the necessary next steps. Leveraging the benefits of automated patient outreach While online self-scheduling, digital patient registration and contactless payment methods deliver the convenience and choice patients desire, automated patient outreach goes a step further to improve patient access and close more gaps in care. Interactive voice response (IVR) and text messaging (SMS) campaigns are helping providers reach out proactively and efficiently to scale scheduling efforts without pulling in additional staff resources. Here are just a few benefits that providers see as a result: 1. Extended outreach capabilities Automated patient outreach surpasses traditional call centers in its ability to effectively reach multiple patients with timely and accurate information. This advanced technology allows for thousands of automated calls per day, eliminating the need for manual facilitation by agents. For instance, SMS and IVR campaigns empower patients to self-schedule appointments without requiring a phone call. Call center agents can easily identify patients who have not booked appointments and follow up accordingly. For those who prefer booking by phone, automated outreach provides a queue callback feature, ensuring that patients are promptly connected to an available agent instead of waiting on hold. This allows agents to efficiently work through the queue. 2. Increased appointment bookings Reaching more patients means more booked appointments, and in turn, fewer gaps in care. Experian Health's patient outreach technology automates the entire scheduling process, from guiding patients to best-fit appointments to issuing reminders to reduce no-shows. Real-time scheduling information ensures that canceled slots are offered to other patients, so those patients can see their doctor sooner, and the doctor's time doesn't go to waste. Convenient self-scheduling options can also increase patient satisfaction and loyalty, which can benefit both patients and providers - by ensuring timely access to care and better use of healthcare resources. 3. Better adherence to treatment plans and fewer unplanned admissions Strategic communication can also help patients stick to medication schedules, book follow-up appointments and make lifestyle changes that will reduce the risk of complications and improve their health overall. This is particularly helpful for chronic disease management and post-operative care, where post-discharge engagement allows providers to monitor and catch any issues before symptoms get worse. A 2022 evaluation of automated text message outreach found that this technology can reduce the risk of 30-day hospital readmission by 41%. 4. Improved patient engagement and satisfaction In today's world, phone calls dominate healthcare communications. But is that always convenient for patients? What if they are at work when their provider calls? In such cases, would they prefer a text message or an email? With reliable consumer data, providers can select the channel that patients will be most likely to engage with. Experian Health's State of Patient Access survey 2.0 found that patients appreciate proactive outreach, though many say this doesn't always happen. Providers that can leverage consumer data, combined with automated outreach, will be better placed to keep pace with evolving consumer expectations. 5. Improved collection rates A final important benefit of patient outreach software is evident on provider balance sheets. Inbound and outbound calling with secure, cloud-based dialing software can generate and issue bill reminders and self-pay options to patients. Experian Health's PatientDial solution provides IVR, bill reminders and self-pay options, which reduce the need for agent interaction. If it's quick and easy to pay, then patients will be more likely to clear their bills in a timely manner. For providers, that means higher in-house collection rates and fewer accounts receivable days eating into the bottom line. In 2021, Experian Health's PatientDial solution helped clients collect over $50 million in patient collections, through more than 250,000 IVR transactions. The automated dialer featured helped our clients save 900,000 labor hours, which would have been otherwise spent in manual dialing. Key considerations when implementing automated patient outreach Building a successful patient outreach strategy can be challenging. It's crucial for providers to deliver timely and pertinent information without overwhelming patients already susceptible to information overload. It is crucial that communications are secure and compliant with privacy regulations such as HIPAA, and consistent with the provider's brand to avoid being mistaken for spam. Additionally, any new systems or technology implemented should be easy for both staff and patients to navigate. By choosing a patient outreach solution that offers a user-friendly interface and ongoing support, providers can ensure that staff hit the ground running. Find out more about how Experian Health's automated patient outreach solutions can help providers improve patient engagement and close more gaps in care.

Is the digitalization of patient access services losing momentum? Experian Health’s State of Patient Access 2023 survey suggests that both patients and providers feel there’s still work to do to open healthcare’s digital front door. Where are the gaps? And how can providers fulfill patients’ digital expectations? This article looks at the advantages of offering a digital patient access experience and three technologies that can help providers stay competitive and give patients what they need and want. What is healthcare’s digital front door? The term “digital front door” refers to the virtual gateway through which patients access healthcare services and information. It has become a synonym for patient access, encompassing the digital touchpoints patients interact with when they’re booking appointments, registering for care, verifying insurance eligibility, paying for services and checking their medical records. This can include a hospital’s website, mobile apps for registration and payment, patient portals, telemedicine platforms and online appointment scheduling systems. Digital services have become an integral part of daily life, and healthcare should be no different. Patients and providers alike are seeking streamlined ways to connect and engage. What are the benefits of opening healthcare’s digital front door?  According to the State of Patient Access survey, patients want one thing above all else: to see their doctor as soon as possible. More than three-quarters said online scheduling was a top priority. Being able to book appointments online sidesteps geographical and practical barriers to care, reduces wait times, and prevents more serious and costly health situations from arising. For providers, this is an effective route to patient loyalty as well as better health outcomes. Opening healthcare’s digital front door unlocks financial advantages, too. Registration forms can be pre-filled with verified patient data, eliminating the errors that can occur through manual processes. This saves time, effort and expense for patients and providers later. CAQH estimates that the efficiencies gained through automated processes across the entire revenue cycle, including patient access, could allow the medical industry to release savings of as much as $22.3 billion each year. As healthcare labor challenges continue, a third of providers also noted that digital technology can help offset staff shortages, easing pressure on staff by automating repetitive tasks. Clarissa Riggins, Chief Product Officer at Experian Health, says, "For those in the healthcare industry who have been hesitant about implementing technology due to fears about replacing workers, the current staffing shortage may be the catalyst they need to change." And with a wealth of insights about service utilization and staff workflows now at their fingertips, data-driven digital services can facilitate continuous operational improvements. Why has the digital momentum slowed? Despite these benefits, patients report a slowdown in the digitalization of patient access. While the acceleration of the adoption of digital services seen during the pandemic could be expected to level off, survey responses from patients and providers hint at a more significant dip. Only 17% of patients think patient access has improved over the last two years, and 47% of providers say it’s gotten worse. Riggins says, "Patients have increasingly high expectations for easy and efficient tech-enabled solutions when it comes to accessing healthcare services...The bottom line is providers must prioritize updating their technology to avoid being left behind. Patients, especially younger generations, are demanding a better 'digital front door' experience or they could look elsewhere for care. In fact, Experian Health's survey found that 56% of patients who believed the access experience was worse said they would switch providers because of it." How can healthcare providers improve their digital front door? Fulfilling patients’ digital expectations comes down to three things: 1. Quick and convenient self-scheduling Survey results show that 76% of patients want to schedule appointments online or via a mobile device. With Experian Health’s patient scheduling software, providers can offer patients the option to book, cancel and reschedule appointments from any device, at any time. This omnichannel platform acts as the central scheduling hub across an entire health system. Self-service scheduling and integrated text and IVR outreach campaigns reduce the number of calls to agents. And for those calls that are needed, guided search makes scheduling quicker and easier. 2. Mobile-enabled patient registration Data from Experian Health and PYMNTS found that a third of patients chose to fill out registration forms for their most recent healthcare visit using digital methods, while 61% said they’d consider switching providers to one that could let them manage care through a patient portal. Aside from boosting patient engagement, automated registration also reduces the risk of denied claims, by preventing data entry errors that occur during patient registration. With Experian Health’s patient intake software, providers can simplify registration for a better patient experience, reduced administrative costs and fewer denied claims. 3. Anytime, anywhere payments More than seven in ten patients say they want to be able to pay for healthcare using online or mobile methods. But before that, they also want to know in advance how much their bill is likely to be. The survey suggests that providers still struggle to deliver accurate, upfront cost estimates to patients. With tools like Patient Financial Advisor, Patient Estimates and self-service payment options, providers can help patients navigate the financial side of their healthcare journey, resulting in prompter payments and more positive reviews. Implementing new systems and tools can be daunting, but with the support of an expert vendor, providers can deliver the convenience and choice that patients demand in the most efficient and cost-effective way. As labor costs continue to rise, now is the time to invest in digital technology to ease pressure on staff, increase patient engagement and safeguard revenue going forward. Discover how Experian Health is helping to open healthcare’s digital front door with comprehensive patient access solutions.

How do patients rate their “patient access” experience? For most, the rating comes down to how quickly they can see their doctor – and many don't feel like their expectations are met. In December 2022, Experian Health surveyed more than 1000 adults who'd accessed care in the previous 12 months to gauge perceptions of patient access. Most think the experience remains unchanged or has gotten worse in the last two years, despite advancements and providers' heavy investments in technology.  Almost 8 in 10 of those patients say “seeing a doctor/practitioner quickly” is their biggest pain point. Other major factors include the level of friction involved in scheduling and registering for care and obtaining accurate pricing estimates before services are rendered. Patient access tools can help ensure that patients receive the care they need in a timely, efficient manner. Breaking down barriers for friction-free patient access What hinders patients' ability to see their doctor quickly? For some, the obstacles are logistical: patients may live far from facilities or lack reliable transportation to get to appointments. Others may have financial concerns, where a lack of insurance coverage or fear of mounting bills prevents them from seeking care. Language and cultural barriers can make it difficult to engage with healthcare services. But for many, it comes down to friction in the “patient access” process itself. This includes long wait times for appointments, disjointed scheduling systems, manual registration processes, and limited payment options. These processes are not only critical to patient satisfaction but also have real consequences for the patient's health and the provider's bottom line. One effective approach to improve access to care is to continue leveraging patient access tools, which has been proven successful in several use cases. Use case 1: Reduce wait times with online self-scheduling Among patients who think access has worsened over the last two years, 49% say their main challenge is finding appointments that fit their schedule, while 40% blame the scheduling process itself. Online self-scheduling solves both, making it easier to book and reducing wait times. With online self-scheduling, patients can log on to book appointments any time they like. There's no need to wait until the phone lines open and speak to customer support representatives. A self-scheduling tool like Patient Schedule can incorporate each provider's business rules and scheduling protocols, so patients get real-time access to the earliest available appointments. By allowing patients to easily cancel or reschedule appointments, same-day slots can be opened up to other patients, so they can see their doctor sooner. Use case 2: Increase operational efficiency with digital patient registration Staffing shortages are an ongoing stressor for providers, so making the best use of available staff time is crucial. Patient intake software can automate many of the manual activities associated with patient registration, such as helping patients fill out forms or manually entering information into electronic health records. In addition, more than 8 in 10 providers say their patients prefer an online registration experience. This corroborates earlier findings from a study by Experian Health and PYMNTS, which found that a third of patients prefer to fill out registration forms at home. Experian Health's Patient Intake Solutions allow patients to complete registration from their mobile. Data can be automatically pre-filled and checked against existing records to save time and avoid errors. Not only is this more appealing to patients than filling out forms in a stuffy waiting room, but it also helps drive down the risk of costly and time-consuming denials. Use case 3: Boost patient engagement with targeted patient outreach Another way to leverage patient access technology is through targeted, automated outreach. With automated text message (SMS) and interactive voice response (IVR) campaigns, patients can receive a personalized link to schedule their appointment directly. Alerts can be sent when earlier appointments become available, which both reduces wait lists and makes it more likely that patients will book. Patients can be sent bill reminders and payment options in the same way. Automated outreach solutions that incorporate reliable consumer data make sure patients get the details they need in a format and timeframe that helps them take action. Use case 4: Speed up collections with accurate estimates and payment plans As rising staffing and supply costs put a squeeze on healthcare profit margins, expediting collections is crucial. This begins with patient access: if patients can pay for care right at the start of their healthcare journey, this eases pressure on both parties to make sure bills are paid in a timely manner. Upgrading payment technology to include upfront pricing estimates, payment plan recommendations and convenient payment methods can all help patients better manage their financial responsibility. Unfortunately, it's still common for patients to go into procedures without knowing how much they'll owe. In Experian Health's survey, 65% of patients said they did not receive an estimate prior to care, and 40% said they were likely to cancel care without advance notice of costs. Leveraging tools such as Patient Financial Advisor and Patient Payment Estimates can automatically arm patients with the information they need to plan and manage their bills. Utilizing patient access tools to meet patients' expectations It is evident from the results of the State of Patient Access 2023 survey that patient access remains an issue. To ensure patients receive the care they need in a timely and efficient manner, providers must make a concerted effort to leverage digital technology. Although healthcare providers have made great strides in providing more efficient patient access solutions, clearly there is still much progress to be made.  The success of any patient-focused initiative relies heavily on being able to meet patients' expectations with timely, effective tools and resources. As healthcare evolves and continues to put a priority on improving outcomes, it's important to take proactive steps toward ensuring the best possible experience for patients when accessing their care. Find out more about how Experian Health's patient access tools can improve patient access and increase profitability for healthcare providers.

To improve the patient journey, providers need to think like consumers. Patients are accustomed to convenience and choice in industries such as retail and banking, and expect the same of their healthcare experience. How quickly can they see their doctor? How easy is it to book appointments? Are they going to be handed a stack of paper forms when they arrive? From scheduling appointments to making payments, every touchpoint in the patient journey is an opportunity to meet and exceed expectations. To improve the patient journey, providers will need to utilize digital tools. Providers that put themselves in the patients’ shoes and find ways to make patient access as frictionless as possible will secure a competitive advantage. Learn how digital technology can enhance healthcare providers' ability to deliver flexible, efficient, and supportive care throughout the patient journey. This article draws upon the insights of Experian Health's State of Patient Access 2023 report to explore the benefits of utilizing digital tools and solutions in healthcare. In 2023, Experian Health surveyed more than 1,000 U.S. patients & 200 healthcare providers to learn about the state of patient access. Get exclusive insights: Before the appointment: how easy is it for patients to schedule care? The patient journey should begin with a welcoming “digital front door”. Demand is clear: according to the State of Patient Access 2023 survey, 56% of patients want more digital options to manage their healthcare. Specifically, 76% say they would like to schedule appointments online or via a mobile device. Creating an inviting, convenient and user-friendly online presence will encourage patients to book more appointments. A multi-purpose online portal gives patients the flexibility to take care of appointment bookings anytime, anywhere. Automated patient scheduling also reduces pressure on call center staff, who are then able to offer extra support to individuals who need it. Real-time status updates and automated appointment reminders ensure patients see their doctor as soon as possible and reduce the risk of no-shows. By creating a seamless transition between a provider’s online presence and physical office, tools like Patient Schedule can create an efficient experience for both staff and patients. Arriving for care: is pre-registration simple and streamlined? Patients deserve a seamless and stress-free experience when arriving for their appointment. Unfortunately, traditional paper forms can be tedious and redundant. Incomplete forms can also lead to delays in treatment. Online self-check-in options and virtual waiting rooms allow providers to move registration out of the waiting area and into the patient’s home or mobile device. With a digital front door, patients can complete pre-registration tasks, get accurate price estimates and even pay their bills before their appointment, via text or online portal. Automated tools can prefill identity information to keep errors and gaps at bay, and avoid claim denials and delays further on in the patient journey. A painless, paperless registration experience is easier and quicker for patients and saves time and resources for providers. Planning for bills: are patients getting upfront pricing estimates? Providers have many opportunities to improve the patient financial journey. Experian Health’s survey found that 40% of patients would cancel or postpone care without accurate estimates, yet 65% did not receive them. That price transparency isn’t the norm is surprising, given the legislative push in recent years. Medical bills can be extremely complex, so providing a detailed breakdown of expected costs is a great way to improve the patient experience. Patient Estimates is a web-based tool that allows patients to generate accurate estimates using their current insurance and benefits information, before or at the point of service. Patients can also be offered personalized financial assistance options including payment plans and charity care. For patients that prefer to take care of business via their mobile device, Patient Financial Advisor offers a similar service via secure text message. Patients get a clear cost breakdown and a link to make secure payments. When financial management is easier for patients, providers are more likely to get paid. Paying for care: do patients have a choice of payment methods? In addition to clear and upfront pricing, providers can enhance the financial experience by offering multiple convenient payment options. Digital-first consumers are looking for the same self-service, secure, one-click payment options that they use for other purchases. Providers that enable digital patient payment tools earlier in the process are not only delivering a more satisfying patient experience, but they’re also more likely to be paid sooner. With Experian Health’s Patient Payment Solutions, providers can collect payments 24/7 via mobile, web and patient portals. Leveraging digital technology to improve the patient journey Alex Harwitz, VP, Digital Front Door, at Experian Health, says that patient loyalty is increasingly tied to digital offerings: “Whether we’re talking about scheduling, registration or payments, the message from the State of Patient Access 2023 survey is clear: patients are looking for transparency, convenience and a significant amount of control. They’re more likely to choose providers that offer these benefits and switch away from those that don’t. For example, nearly a quarter have considered looking for a different provider because of a poor payment experience.” The realization that a better patient access experience results in better business outcomes is almost universal among providers. And with advancing patient access technology, providers now have more ways to deliver a consumer-friendly experience that allows patients to focus on their health, and not on the admin of care. Download the State of Patient Access 2023 – the Digital Front Door, to find out more about patient and provider perspectives on how to improve the patient journey.