I really enjoyed talking with Jen about her business and how she came to use Lactation Practice Billing Service. Here’s a bit of our conversation
LP: How did you become an IBCLC?
JK: I came to this profession from birth and postpartum doula work. I love working with families so much and have always been fascinated by the art and science of breastfeeding. It was a natural step for me to become an IBCLC! I’ve been certified since 2017.
LP: Where do you practice?
JK: I’m in New Jersey and one of only a handful of IBCLCs with office spaces. Apparently people here love the office-based IBCLC because I am busy! I’ve always wanted to be able to grow and add IBCLCs to my practice. Even though sometimes it’s scary, I feel it’s important to invest in myself and invest in my business so that growth can happen.
LP: What made you decide to hire a biller?
JK: Ya know it was really when the shut down happened and I went to all virtual consultations. Before that, I was doing my own billing and it worked ok. I had 2-3 claims a week and most of the time it was easy. The problem claims were time consuming and frustrating of course. Even so, I thought a biller was a luxury. But with the switch to virtual, I didn’t know what I was doing at all! I tried to learn what I could from my peers on Facebook groups. I saw so much concern about billing and everyone was totally confused. I thought to myself: “Why am I trying to get this information about billing from people who aren’t billers? They’re all just as confused as I am!”
I realized it’s kind of like our profession. We always tell our clients to hire us as the experts to help them rather than rely on social media and peers for advice. Shouldn’t I take my own advice? So I decided to hire someone who knows what they’re talking about!
My expertise is helping people feed their babies–not billing!
LP: Good point! How do you feel about the 8.5% fee?
JK: I’ve seen billers that charge 11% so I think 8.5% is a good value. And honestly, it wouldn’t matter to me even if it were 15%! It’s a small price to pay for something I don’t have to do. I’m always excited when my bill arrives. It means my business is thriving and I’m doing well.
LP: I agree! How has the process of submitting claims been for you?
JK: You guys have made the process easy and not scary! My biller is such a good doula for me. She’s a billing doula! I didn’t know what I was doing at first, but she really helped guide me. And she chases down the problem claims so I don’t have to. Sometimes I have questions and she’s always responsive and helpful.
LP: We love our billers too! Is there anything else you’d like to add?
JK: I just want to say that I really appreciate all the detail included on your website. I was able to read about the billing service and understand the process before I even signed up!
A big thank you to Jen for taking her time to talk with me! For more information about Lactation Practice Billing Service, please check out the “About” page.
