How does the Credit Card on File (CCOF) work?
Your card information is securely protected by the credit-card processing component of our HIPAA-compliant practice management system. This system stores the card information for future transactions using the same technology that credit card companies use. Nothing is changing about the patient responsibility amount. We will bill your insurance company for you, and we have contracts with most insurance companies that help to get you the best possible coverage for your care. CCOF will only cover your responsibility after your insurance pays its contracted share.
How will I know how much you are going to charge me?
You will receive a letter in the mail (or e-mail) from your insurance carrier that explains how much of your office visit they pay and how much you pay. This is called an Explanation of Benefits (EOB This letter tells you exactly, according to your health insurance coverage, how much of your health care bill is your insurance company's responsibility and how much of the bill is your responsibility. We also receive a copy of the EOB. Since you would have paid for your medical service before your appointment, you will be unlikely to owe any additional amount after your visit. However, if the insurance determines the patient responsibility is more than what you paid, you will receive an email and text message from us with your patient balance and the option to pay however you like. If the balance is not paid in 30 days, the card on file will be charged.
I always pay my bills, why me?
We must be fair and apply the policy to all patients. We have so many wonderful patients and we know that most of you pay your balances. Unfortunately, this is not always the case.
How does CCOF benefit patients?
It is far more convenient to have a credit card on file. Check-in and Check-out time will be shorter. You no longer will need to call the office or worry about getting around to paying your bill. This process is especially helpful for patients who have HSA cards to pay for their medical care. If you get your statement and want to use a different card, pay by check, or discuss a payment plan, you may still do so as long as you do so promptly.
How does CCOF drive down administrative costs and improve care?
Our staff can spend more time taking care of our patients and their medical needs and less time on processing payments. Please understand that the entire billing process is very time-consuming and costly. Implementing this policy is essential for us to continue to accept insurance.
What if there is a problem with my bill and I don't notice it until after the payment is processed?
We hope that this does not happen. Although we love technology, we routinely review the accuracy of claims processed by insurance and will contact you if we find a problem. If you find a problem, please call us and we will investigate it. If we owe you money, we will refund it promptly to the same card. You may contact our billing team at (321) 449-7746 for any questions or concerns.