Home-Based billing for doctors' offices

Solo physicians, small group practices and specialists who would rather not do billing in-house.

Usually a percentage of the claims you collect, or a flat monthly fee per practice. Extra income can come from setup, audits of old rejected claims and training front-desk staff.

• Careful with detail and numbers
• Learning billing codes and fee schedules
• Discreet with confidential information
• Clear email and phone follow-up

• Health privacy law differs by province (for example PHIPA in Ontario). Check what applies to you and what your clients must have in place
• Some provinces or health authorities limit where patient data can be stored or accessed. Check before using cloud software or working from outside the province
• Billing errors can lead to claim clawbacks or audits for your client. Check what insurance covers errors and omissions
• Many clients stay on a few months of trial, so cash flow can be slow when you start
• Check municipal rules on running a home-based business and whether you need a business licence

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $500 to $3,000 CAD, depending on the billing software you use, your home office set-up and any insurance you take on. Actual costs vary with the clients and systems you work with.

Check which health privacy law applies in your province, such as PHIPA in Ontario, and what your clients must have in place. Also check any limits on where patient data can be stored, and what insurance covers errors and omissions.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $800 to $5,000 CAD, depending on how many physicians or clinics you serve. The estimate assumes roughly 10 hours a week or more, and cash flow can be slow while clients are on trial.