Patients paying for health care services will have more convenient choices, thanks to next-generation credit card devices and related financial software.

For the first time, patients will be able to use apps like Apple Pay or Google Pay or a compatible tap-to-pay card with their smartphone or mobile device if they’d rather not insert a card into a machine. Touch-free options help minimize contact at a time when infection control is a critical priority.

Additionally, patients who call in to set up a payment plan may choose automatic deductions from a bank account, not just from a credit or debit (swiped as credit) card. This option will also be available via the MyUFHealth patient portal.

The new technology specifically supports Epic-related patient payments made by credit cards or debit-as-credit cards. Changes roll out this fall for all our hospitals, outpatient programs, E.R.s and physician medical practices.

Other changes will be invisible to the end-user. Behind-the-scenes, UF Health IT is partnering with Revenue Cycle teams and will provide instructions, tip sheets and training during a phased rollout.