Abstract: Methods and apparatus for facilitating a payment collection process by enabling a patient to pre-authorize payment for future medical services not covered by the patient's healthcare payer. Rather than sending a statement to a patient instructing the payment to remit an outstanding balance, a practice management system automatically applies electronic funds for the patient's outstanding balance in accordance with terms of a contract executed between the patient and the medical practice at the time of service. By including contract terms such as a predefined maximum charge amount and limited contract duration, patients may feel that their electronic account information is safe and that they will be billed only for what they owe. Additionally, medical practices may have better assurance that remittance for medical services will be paid promptly by patients under the terms of the contract.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for facilitating a payment collection process by enabling a patient to pre-authorize payment for future medical services not covered by the patient's healthcare payer. Rather than sending a statement to a patient instructing the payment to remit an outstanding balance, a practice management system automatically applies electronic funds for the patient's outstanding balance in accordance with terms of a contract executed between the patient and the medical practice at the time of service. By including contract terms such as a predefined maximum charge amount and limited contract duration, patients may feel that their electronic account information is safe and that they will be billed only for what they owe. Additionally, medical practices may have better assurance that remittance for medical services will be paid promptly by patients under the terms of the contract.