Doctors always ask me if there is a secret formula for getting insurance claims paid. The truth is, submitting a claim is a process of efficiency and if you keep a few things in mind, the incidence of denied claims can be reduced and often eliminated.

1. Get services pre-authorized. Make sure the services you’re going to provide have been pre-authorized and always enter the authorization on the claim form.

2. Submit your claims quickly. Many carriers have timely filing deadlines which are difficult to overcome barring extenuating circumstances. Always submit your claims within a week of the date of service.

3. Check claim status. Don’t sit back and assume your claim is being processed. On the 31st day after sending in your claim, call the carrier or check on-line for status. Just because you’ve submitted the claim doesn’t mean they’ve received it.

4. Verify your patient’s benefits. All too often a patient will provide you with wrong insurance information and are misinformed about their benefits or coverage.

5. Don’t give up if a claim has been denied! Be diligent and follow through with the appeal process.