Southeastern Med Changes Point of Service Collection

Contact: Kelli Koch
Marketing/Communications Specialist
Southeastern Med
kjkoch@seormc.org

CAMBRIDGE, Ohio, Jan. 6, 2011 – In September 2009, Southeastern Med began collecting a standard financial deposit of $35 before a patient’s time of service. In an effort to better educate patients of their healthcare costs and their financial responsibility, the medical center will begin using a new computer system to estimate patients’ up front, out-of-pocket expenses. Through the new system, patients’ initial financial deposit will be more than $35 and each patient’s deposit amount will vary depending on his or her insurance plan.

What does this mean for Southeastern Med patients? For scheduled services, the medical center will contact the patient in advance to verify insurance coverage and explain their out of pocket expenses. Prior to service, patients will be responsible for the amount not covered by their insurance company, including co-payments, co-insurance, deductibles, and any other charge not covered by the insurance company.

“Southeastern Med strives to help our patients better understand their healthcare costs and financial responsibilities,” said Ray Chorey, CEO and President of Southeastern Med. “Point of service collection allows the medical center to verify insurance coverage, discuss costs and make payment arrangements in advance with each patient. This is a step the medical center must take to remain financially viable to serve our community.”

Southeastern Med will initially begin this process for Radiology procedures. Soon after, the medical center will expand it for Wound Care and Endoscopy services, as well as Surgery. If a patient is unable to meet their financial responsibility as determined by their insurance plan, financial counselors are available to assist with many alternative payment arrangements.

If you have any questions or would like more information about this new process, please contact Sandy Lebeau, Resource Counselor, 740-439-8621; or Bryan Martin, director of Patient Financial Services, 740- 435-2121.