Most folks expect to be able to pay their bills online.  It saves the patient and the organization time and money.  Collection rates will go up because accuracy of billing improves and patients are more likely to pay when it is convenient for them. 

Requirements

Just think what tools are available to you when you go to pay your cell phone bill online.  The patient portal vendor should offer similar features, i.e. bill pay, electronic statements, charge and claim review, etc.  This type of functionality has been around for years from the major banks and credit card companies, it is high time the health care world caught up.

Questions to Ask

To Vendors

Can patients pay their bills online?

What credit card APIs are supported?

Are there extra costs or license fees when using the billing features?

Are accurate electronic statements available?  If so, can they replace paper statements?

Is there opt-in functionality to support patients switching to electronic statements?

For Patients

Can I pay my bill online?

Can I view my statement online?

Are there extra fees for paying my bill online?