Talk is not cheap: improving patient telephone profitability.
Because of the recent deregulation of the telecommunications industry, healthcare institutions are facing rising telephone costs and the sensitive issue of charging patients for phone services. Flat fee and call resale programs are two options that can help ease the financial strain while preserving the relationship between hospitals and patients. While both programs have their benefits and drawbacks, if properly implemented, the cost of telephones and services can be equally divided while enhancing the quality of service.
D003284:Contract Services / Q000191:economics; D005249:Fees and Charges; D005376:Financial Management / Q000379:methods*; D005377:Financial Management, Hospital / Q000379:methods*; D006747:Hospital Communication Systems / Q000191:economics*; D013689:Telephone / Q000191:economics*