A common complaint among skilled nursing providers is how to fill empty beds. Vacant beds count as one of the the biggest expense at skilled nursing facilities. Many nursing homes are consistently at 70% – 80% capacity in what is an extremely competitive industry. Many facilities have access to many referrals, but they are just not acting fast enough. Since filling beds is the primary means to generate revenue, putting a proactive plan into place is of paramount importance.
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Here are 4 Proven Tips to Accept Referrals and Ensure Profitable Admissions in Under 10 Minutes.
Tip #1: Managed Care Contracts
Make sure both the marketing and admissions teams have a clear understanding and written guide of the managed care payers that you are in network with. You should also be aware of each contract’s reimbursement rates and level criteria, what carveouts are needed, and if additional authorizations are needed for ancillary services.
Tip #2: Online Services
Invest in an accurate and efficient online software that you can use for eligibility checks across multiple payers. This will pay for itself in just a short while, when your team is no longer required to spend valuable time verifying payers through several different parties.
Tip #3: Proper Staffing
Employ a knowledgeable MDS Coordinator and Rehab Director. Staff members that can swiftly evaluate the amount of therapy needed and medication costs against the potential reimbursement when a referral comes in, can be an asset when it comes to determining profitable admissions.
Tip #4: Decide!
Once you have gathered all relevant information, it should be submitted immediately to an experienced decision maker who will consider all the variables to make the ultimate (and speedy) call on whether to accept or pass on a referral.
By taking the time now to put these simple steps into place, your staff will be able to accept profitable admissions swiftly and effectively in just minutes.
LTC Contracting is the complete solution for all managed care services and change of ownership needs. Established in 2016, our mission is, and has always been to effectively guide providers through all their contracting and HMO needs in full compliance with CMS regulations. This ranges from HMO Credentialing and Contracting, Case Management, Government Provider Enrollment, Licensure and Business Setup, and Behavioral Health Provider Services. Setting the bar in managed care guidance and results, LTC Contracting services clients nationwide with continuous growth and expansion, by cultivating strong relationships with insurers and government offices and utilizing our targeted market data to help lead our clients to financial success.