Persuasion is the art of getting what you want by giving people what they want. For example, people want to get rewards and avoid punishment.
Collectors who understand this never threaten to ruin credit ratings, sue, or initiate other punishment. Instead, they show how payment protects one's credit standing and keeps attorneys and collection agencies out of the picture.
Remind your staff that persuasion is the appropriate technique to use with patients when your practice is having difficulty collecting an outstanding patient balance. It's a way to preserve a healthy relationship with patients.
For more advice on improving your practice's internal collection systems or to find out about outsourcing problem accounts, visit www.icsystem.com, a TMA-endorsed company that can help you manage accounts receivable. Or contact IC System at info[at]icsystem[dot]com or (800) 561-5695, and be sure to mention you are a Texas Medical Association member.
TMA Practice E-tips main page
Last Updated On
December 03, 2020
Originally Published On
March 23, 2010