Know Your Vendor Before Choosing Medical Billing Software

By Author: david harvey
Total Articles: 1
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Before you purchase either desktop medical billing software or an online service, you should know something about the company that is selling it to you. Here are some things to think about:

How good is the technical support?

Medical billing is complex. ICD-10 is almost upon us and there are ever changing requirements and complexities to be navigated. You have to think of your software vendor as your partner because you will be relying on them to solve any problems you encounter. Your technical support has to be not only good, but timely. If all your electronic claims are being rejected, you need results not excuses.

Do I have other options for training and support?

Some software companies have direct sales only. You buy software, training, and support only from them. Other companies like TotalMD and Medisoft have reseller programs. They allow independent sellers to buy their software at a discount and resell it to the public. This type of arrangement is very helpful to end users because it increases the pool of knowledgeable people available to provide training and support on your software.

What ...
... do you know about the company?

Most people don’t even consider this question? Try to get a feel for how this company is to work for? Is software their main business and source of revenue? When I look at new software, I make it a point to speak to as many company employees as I can. I ask them about their company’s mission and how long they have worked for the organization. How knowledgeable are they? Well paid, happy employees stick around. Poorly paid and poorly trained employees mean high turnover and poor support.

How long has the software been in use?

I ask this question because, there is no such thing as bug free software. The longer the software has been around, the more likely the big bugs have been worked out.
What can you learn from the company website?

You can learn a lot about a company from their website. Is it well organized? Does it offer you a lot of helpful information? Can you find system requirements, testimonials, medical billing software training and support information, and pricing? Most importantly, can you see a comprehensive on line demonstration of the software? Some companies offer down-loadable demos you can help you get a feel for the software.

For more information about medical billing software and other tips and advice for your practice or medical billing service, be sure to visit medical-billing-guide.com.