The coronavirus pandemic has shifted the dynamics of patient care for healthcare providers. Many experts agree that many of these changes will lead to permanent trends as patients shift their expectations on how to interface with their doctors.
A recent news release from InstaMed’s Trends in Healthcare Payments 11th Annual Report found that 78 percent of patients would like many of the contactless options implemented to curtail the pandemic to become permanent options post-pandemic.
Luckily, the medical ancillary sector has several great options for healthcare providers looking to adapt to this new paradigm and deliver the type of care their patients are looking for.
These are 5 great programs that Primary Care Providers can implement to capitalize on this trend:
Telehealth
According to the CDC, telehealth visits increased by 73% in the first week of March 2021 as compared to the same week in 2020. It is clear patients prefer the convenience of telehealth, with many clinics benefiting from the efficiencies that it brings.
Most practices do not have a dedicated telehealth resource, and it can be confusing to know where to start.
Our telehealth platform is easy to implement, with no IT resources, hardware, or software to purchase. Put simply, this is the most user-friendly, economical telehealth platform on the market.
Medical Weight Loss
It is estimated that the average American gained 8-15 pounds during the pandemic. The downstream health consequences of this trend will be felt for years to come.
Luckily, CMS and private insurers cover up to 26 weight loss counseling sessions for patients who meet the BMI threshold, billable as a telehealth visit.
This particular program has proven to be hugely successful and sustainable, with patients losing an average of 11% of their body weight in the first 12 weeks, and a sustained 12% loss in body weight over a 24-month period.
Remote Patient Monitoring
RPM uses digital technologies to collect medical and other forms of health data from individuals in one location and electronically transmit that information securely to health care providers in a different location for assessment and recommendations.
This equips healthcare providers with multiple data points on different health measures as opposed to a single data point on the day of the visit.
Best of all, this is done from the comfort of the patient’s home.
RPM is a covered benefit for patients with chronic conditions. Providers who implement this program are able to significantly increase per patient revenue, making it one of the most profitable ancillary programs as well.
There are different options available for RPM, with some run entirely by clinic staff and others outsourced.
Home Sleep Apnea
Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea are at a significantly higher risk of developing hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, obesity, and sudden death.
The popularity of sleep labs was waning even prior to the pandemic. With new diagnostic monitoring equipment, sleep studies can be done from the comfort of the patient’s own home, where they are more likely to have a normal night’s sleep.
Our home sleep apnea device is compact and ergonomic, with a very affordable price point. Providers have a billable technical code creating an additional source of revenue.
Digital Payments
More than 90% of patients currently pay their invoices online, however, only 38% of independent providers offer an online payment solution. An electronic payment platform helps streamline the payment process and increase the collection of copays and other out-of-pocket expenses.
Our platform allows a practice to request and accept payments, insurance payers, and medical billing companies.
A provider dashboard includes detailed statistics, the ability to create invoices, collect payments, produce reports, and view statements.
Best of all, there is no up-front cost to the practice, just a small fee on each transaction.
If you would like any more information about these or any other program that will enhance your patient’s experience, consult with your local Practice Development Manager.