Doctor’s offices and healthcare services must keep up with their patients. A good medical answering service is a necessity and it’s important to have one which can take care of your staff’s and patient’s needs. However, there are lot of answering systems to consider and this can raise many questions. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about medical answering services.
Q. Why does a medical answering service have to be HIPPA compliant?
A. HIPAA compliancy is all about protecting the information and privacy of patients. Any type of communications between patient and healthcare facility is considered confidential. An answering service must have built-in security to ensure messages and information cannot be viewed or intercepted by unauthorized parties.
Q. Do I really need a live operator for my answering service?
A. No, and you could be better off with a fully automated system. For example, many patients do not wish to discuss their private matters (like health) with strangers or people they feel are unqualified. A good automated system can provide valuable information and place patients in contact with doctors for urgent matters.
Q. Is it necessary to tie myself down with a long term commitment or contract?
A. No, many excellent answering services do not require contracts. You can enjoy service on a month to month basis. This leaves you free to explore other options if you wish.
Q. What if I sign up for a service and am not satisfied after a week has passed?
A. It depends on the medical answering service you sign up with. Some services may provide a prorated refund. However, you can find reputable services willing to give you a free trial period for two weeks.
Q. Why do I have to pay by the minute?
A. You don’t. You can find a good answering service with flat-fee rates. No matter how many calls come in, your monthly bill will not go up. Flat rate services are very affordable and can help you lower your operating expenses, considerably.
Q. Can my medical answering service notify by email?
A. Yes, when you have a virtual automated system it can send out notices via email. You also can receive messages by text, cell phone, or landline phone, but make sure there is no additional charge for these services. It is not hard to find a good service with a wide variety of options and features included in your affordable flat monthly rate.
