I cannot stress enough how critical a role data entry of patient information is for the prompt payment of medical insurance billing. From the time the patient calls to schedule the appointment it is imperative that all information collected and entered into the computer system be valid and correct; without it, the claim will certainly deny, requiring the medical biller to go on a hunt to locate the problem or missing information. Something as simple as an incorrect digit in the date of birth or insurance identification number will cause a non-payment of a medical insurance claim.

The medical insurance biller is not the only person who will be involved in the gathering of information needed for the billing of a medical insurance claim. The receptionist making the appointment will often be the only person who collects the vital personal and insurance information needed to send a medical insurance claim; therefore, it is extremely important to know what information is necessary, and to enter all of the information accurately.

Patient information will include not only the patient's personal information; it will also include that of the insured. The relationship between the patient and insured is also needed. The specific personal information to obtain from both the insured and the patient will include their dates of birth, addresses and telephone numbers. The insurance information which is necessary includes the name of the insurance company or companies, telephone number and address to submit claims, the policy number, group number and employer of the insured.

Health history information should be obtained as well to include the specific reason for which the patient is making the appointment. The name of the physician referring the patient is also needed, if applicable, as well as the medical billing information for that physician. If the patient was in an accident, the date, type and place of the accident is also crucial to the filing of the medical insurance claim. Depending on what type of accident and the location of its occurrence will depend on what type of medical insurance will be billed. For instance, if the patient was in a work related accident, he will have workers compensation insurance, just as an auto accident will be billed to the automobile insurance.

In closing, let me state again just how imperative it is to employ a competent and reliable staff in order to make certain your patients' medical insurance claims are paid as rapidly as possible.