Scheduling Control Point
The scheduling control point exists in both the revenue cycle and the patient flow processes. In relation to the revenue cycle, scheduling is critical in determining the status of the patient's appointment. Was the patient's status "arrived" or did they cancel, or were they a no-show? This is critical information required to ensure a charge has been documented for each encounter.
In-House or Point-of-Service Control Point
The in-house or point-of service control point is unique in that it is likely the only time the patient will be physically present and available to provide information and / or make payments on self-pay balances. It is also the point in which the patient's motivation to pay is the greatest and the cost to collect is the lowest. Unfortunately, many clinics do not seize this opportunity, resulting in costly collection efforts in later stages of the revenue cycle.
The primary stages of this control point are detailed as follows:
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