The flu is on steroids this year. At least, that's how it seems as it travels across the country, making its powerful punch felt ahead of schedule (it typically peaks between January and March). As a result, pharmacies, doctors and hospitals have seen increased volume and demand for treatment since mid-December.
While the number of flu cases eventually will taper off, the medical industry will stay relevant and profitable. TFP Data Systems recognizes this and has positioned itself as an expert in the market. In fact, the company has been working directly with the National Uniform Claim Committee (NUCC) on the development and distribution of the latest revision of the 1500 Health Insurance Claim Form (version 02/12). The updated form is set to feature a host of changes, including the addition of eight lines for diagnosis codes in Item Number 21 and the addition of a QR code in the upper left-hand corner. According to Jim Magdaleno, product manager for Oxnard, California-based TFP Data Systems, the proposed changes have been approved by the NUCC, but the Office of Management Budget (OMB) must give final approval.
To facilitate the transition for its partners, TFP's Compliance Team put together a white paper covering important points and frequently asked questions (FAQs). Here, Magdaleno details the thought process behind this promotional tool.
Print+Promo (P+P): Please briefly describe a promotion of yours that you consider one of TFP Data's best?
Jim Magdaleno (JM): TFP Data Systems developed an informational four-page white paper highlighting the new CMS-1500 health care billing form. The CMS-1500 is the most widely used form in the United States. And whenever there's a change, our partners enjoy a significant spike in sales. The goal of the white paper was to inform the dealers about the new form, detail the changes and answer FAQs they may encounter from customers. All of this information was geared to help them prepare for the opportunity and educate their staff about the updates.
P+P: What types of items were featured in this promotion?
JM: The new CMS-1500 form was featured in the promotion. The new form is expected to be released in the next few weeks. As the designated provider of the revised CMS-1500, TFP Data Systems has been working directly with the governing agencies on the form's development and distribution.
P+P: How was this a profitable promotion for your company?
JM: The white paper accomplished several goals: It educated our current dealers about the change and helped them gear up for the opportunity. It positioned our company as the expert on health insurance claim forms. In addition, we received several leads because we offered the white paper as an incentive in our print ads. Once the new form is released, our current dealers have the information they need to start selling. And we have new prospects adding the product line.
P+P: Do you have any advice for distributors interested in selling to the health care market?
JM: Medical claim forms are a great selling opportunity. Health insurance companies and government agencies—such as Medicare and Medicaid—use these forms to process more than 20 billion claims every year. These forms bring in sales throughout the year because most customers need to replenish regularly. Every health care provider needs these forms, including doctors, clinics and hospitals. These forms are a standard for submitting claims and are required by virtually all reimbursement providers. If you have customers in the health care industry, you need to carry this product line.
For more information, visit www.tfpdata.com.
Interested in more health care-related promotions?Take a sneak peek at some other options.
Go With the Flow
Megaform Computer Products' Extended Trauma Flowsheet enables health care professionals to obtain and record extensive information on one 34" form. It has a five-hole file punch for convenient binding. The flowsheet also is available with a die cut to suit various binding needs, and is offered in a continuous format.
For more information, visit www.megaformcp.com.
Don't Be a Pill
The 7-Day Med Minder from Evans Manufacturing features seven rounded compartments that provide easy access to medication. Large embossed letters and braille text make information easy to read. An angled imprint area ensures company logos stand out.
For more information, visit www.evans-mfg.com.