Questions and Answers Document For Facility Scheduling Program

Posted 22 August 2012 by egatton & filed under Provider News.

What is the Facility Scheduling Program?

As part of NIA and Kentucky Spirit’s ongoing commitment to our members and providers we are introducing a Scheduling program on September 17 , 2012.  This program is designed to save providers time by having NIA help patients select and schedule appointments at convenient, cost-effective, in-network imaging facilities.

How does this program work?

The process is simple:

• After you’ve determined that your patient needs a test, simply provide your patient with a prescription/order of the test being requested.
• Let your patient know that a representative from NIA will be calling them to help them choose a facility and assist them with scheduling the appointment.
• When you contact us to receive authorization for the test, please make sure you have a current phone number for the patient.

What information does NIA share with the patient to assist them in selecting a facility?

NIA has access to necessary information for all in-network imaging providers on Kentucky Spirit’s network which will allow them to assist the member in selecting and scheduling an appointment with a convenient imaging facility.  NIA has access to information regarding the approval of the test as well as information about the imaging facilities such as convenience items that may be important to your patient:

• Location
• Transportation issues/parking
• Extended hours
• Language needs during scheduling

How does this program benefit our office?

This program helps save your office staff time by not having to schedule the tests for your patients and ensuring that your patients are treated at the in-network facility that best meets their needs.

What if we feel strongly about where our patients are seen?

Please share any preferences you have with your patient.  We understand that in certain circumstances there could be a clinical reason that a test needs to be performed in a certain type of setting.  Our process provides you the opportunity to share these clinical reasons if your patient needs a certain type of setting.  Our goal with all of the services provided to your patient is to ensure that the services are performed in high quality facilities that are convenient, meet the patient’s specific medical needs, and are cost effective.

What do the patients think of this type of program?

NIA has delivered this type of program in many other areas around the country for many years and has received overwhelming positive feedback from members that they find this program helpful and informative.

How do we find out what facility was ultimately selected?

You will be notified of the facility selected via a copy of the authorization letter.

Who should we call if we have any questions about the program?

If you have any questions about this program, please contact NIA by calling (800) 327-0641.