CMA has published a new toolkit to train physician office personnel in proper billing and collections procedures. The toolkit, Back to Basics: A Step-by-Step Guide to Maximizing Your Cash Flow, is the third in a series of practice management toolkits designed to help members become more successful in their practices.

Whether you’re new to the field or just want a refresher course, this self-instructional workbook will teach physicians and their office staff how to:

• Gain greater control of the practice’s bottom line
• Increase revenue while decreasing days in A/R
• Identify common pitfalls of the billing and collections process
• Monitor payor compliance with contract terms
• Develop skills to effectively and efficiently manage collections
• Foster positive working relationships
• Discover other practice management resources available to CMA members

The toolkit can be also be used to test existing staff’s knowledge or as an interview tool to test new applicants’ skill level.

CMA members can purchase the toolkit for $49 (nonmembers $149). To order, visit the CMA Bookstore or call 800/882-1262. The two previous toolkits, Taking Charge: Steps to Evaluating Relationships and Preparing for Negotiations and Getting Paid: Strategies to Maximize Reimbursement, are also available in the bookstore.

CMA’s Center for Economic Services will be offering “Back to Basics” seminars throughout the state. The next two seminars are May 2 in Ventura (during the PAHCOM annual conference) and May 16 in Riverside/San Bernardino.

If you are interested in attending a Back to Basics seminar in your area, contact your county medical society.

Contact: CMA’s reimbursement help line, 888/401-5911 or gfonseca@cmanet.org.