What is the primary method for verifying patient insurance eligibility?

The primary method for verifying patient insurance eligibility is using a phone, the insurance website, or a point-of-sale (POS) device. This approach allows healthcare providers to access real-time information about a patient's insurance status, coverage details, and any restrictions related to their insurance plan.

Using a phone or an insurance website enables the provider to confirm details such as policy validity, copay amounts, and whether specific services are covered before proceeding with treatment. A POS device can facilitate immediate verification at the time of service, streamlining the check-in process and improving the overall patient experience.

Other options, such as submitting a claim form or calling the patient’s employer, are not effective methods for eligibility verification. Claim forms are used after services have been provided, and contacting an employer might not yield accurate information regarding an individual's insurance status, as it is typically managed by the insurance company directly. Checking a patient’s credit history is unrelated to insurance eligibility and does not provide relevant information about a patient's coverage.