FRANKLIN, TN – An integrated clearinghouse solution from two healthcare IT vendors has helped Star Physical Therapy cuts its paper output in half and save more than $1,500 per month in printing and mailing costs.

Not to mention making the whole billing process quicker and more effective.

The Franklin, Tenn.-based rehabilitation practice, which staffs more than 60 outpatient clinics throughout Tennessee, Kentucky and Indiana, implemented a practice management system earlier this year that included software solutions from SourceMedical, a Birmingham, Ala.-based provider of outpatient information management systems, and ZirMed, a Louisville, Ky.-based provider of revenue cycle management services. The combined PMS/EDI clearinghouse solution helped Star Physical Therapy increase accuracy, streamline processes, analyze performance and simplify payment procedures.

"We handle billing for all our clinics through a central office," said Damon Adelgren, Star Physical's director of operations, in a recent press release. "Since adopting an integrated PMS, we've had far better control over our claims submissions, payment capabilities and collections. Our electronic payment option alone has resulted in a 50 percent reduction in the number of statements we issue, saving us over $1,500 per month in printing and mailing costs."

The new online bill payment option for customers has "been a fantastic tool," added Adelgren, "enabling our patients to pay continuing charges through their choice of a credit or debit card, as well as through direct transfer from their checking or savings accounts. We can take the information over the phone. In fact, what used to take us five days and up to four people to accomplish by mail can now be handled in minutes by one person."