Healthcare facilities have never before encountered so many new changes and obstacles in such a short time. Just as an aging population is driving up the need for medical treatments, changes in insurance and government laws are making it harder to do the actual job. Of all the things your organization can do to stay afloat in these changing times, hiring a reputable, competent, highly-trained physician answering service might be the absolute best way to thrive in this competitive environment.
Healthcare facilities that need call answering services
Any medical facility or organization needs the assistance of healthcare call centers .
Physicians’ offices can streamline front desk operations by hiring a service to handle calls regarding appointment scheduling and other fundamental questions, such as operating hours and directions.
Dental offices can also benefit from lessening the workload of the front desk personnel by having a service handle basic calls for scheduling, office hours and directions, as well as handling common questions such as post-care after a recent treatment or pre-care questions about eating or drinking before an appointment.
Hospice agencies and specialists like OB/GYNs, oncologists, pediatricians, and physical therapists can use a call center to handle common front desk calls, in addition to having someone available 24/7 in the event of patient emergencies. The call answering service can even dispatch emergency help in severe instances.
What call centers do for Healthcare Facilities?
Call answering services that specialize in assisting medical facilities and organizations have training courses that dictate how calls must be handled, including how to adhere to HIPAA guidelines, when to recommend calling 911, and how to deal with calls from insurance agencies. These services free up front desk personnel and nursing staff so that heavy call volumes don’t affect their ability to handle incoming patients in the office.
Healthcare call centers can handle inbound calls, but can also manage outbound calling for your medical facility, including appointment confirmations, follow up calls to patients after treatment, and calls to trace down payments from patients or insurance companies. These services are especially valuable when it’s time for the office staff to go to lunch or attend a meeting, as there is always someone manning the phones when your staff members can’t be there.
How to choose the right call centers for your healthcare business
Though a call center can be incredibly valuable to medical facilities, it’s crucial to choose one that has a direct and relevant experience in the pharmaceutical industry, especially regarding HIPAA guidelines and other regulated issues. Look for a center that can manage the workload during the hours you most need it — such as after hours or during peak business hours. Also, make sure the center you contract with offers a variety of options to meet your needs, such as automated up front greetings to properly direct callers, and choices when it comes to when and how your office will receive their messages.
A call service means your office can handle more business with fewer workers, which is the key to surviving and thriving in this shaky economy.