Your phone number is more than just a point of contact. It’s part of your practice’s identity. Patients save it in their phones, it’s on every flier, and referral partners use it to connect you with new patients. When you move to a voice-over-Internet-protocol (VoIP) phone system, changing that number can break more links than you expect. Porting lets you upgrade your phone system while retaining the number everyone already knows.
Fortunately, you can upgrade without losing the number everyone already knows. Through a process called porting, you can keep your existing phone number when switching service providers. The Communications Act defines number portability as retaining your phone number without sacrificing quality, reliability, or convenience.
As the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) notes, phone number porting can be done between wireline, IP, and wireless providers as long as you stay in the same geographic area. The process is regulated by the FCC to prevent fraud, such as the theft of phone numbers.
The RingRx Porting Process
Porting to the RingRx HIPAA-compliant communications platform is not only easy – it’s also free. There are no interruptions in communication, and you don’t lose any patients due to outdated contact information. The process typically takes from one to three weeks, but your phone number(s) remain active the whole time. There is absolutely no downtime.
It’s not unusual for healthcare providers to be a little confused about the porting process, especially when upgrading from a basic phone system to a VoIP communications solution full of features and functionality. If you have questions, we have answers!
Is porting the same as forwarding a call?
Porting your number is different from forwarding a call. While call forwarding transfers calls from one number to another, porting moves your number to a new carrier.
Can I use one form to request porting multiple numbers?
A: Yes – you can list up to 10 numbers on a single form as long as they are all tied to the same account. If you manage multiple accounts, please submit a separate form for each account.
Can I port a toll-free number?
Yes. Toll-free numbers were specifically designed to be ported to encourage competition among carriers.
Can I forward my existing phone number to my temporary RingRx number while the port is in process?
Yes. We recommend contacting RingRx Support first to ensure it is set up and functioning correctly. To forward to RingRx, use the 10-digit number assigned during your trial.
When should I close my account with my previous telephone service provider?
Porting doesn’t automatically close your account with your previous provider, so it’s important to move your number before closing the account. Do not cancel your cell phone service before the number ports to RingRx.
Can my previous telephone service provider deny my request to port my number?
When you request service from a new company, your previous provider is legally required to port your number — regardless of any outstanding balance or termination fee.
Does porting work with RingRx’s free 14-day trial?
Before porting can begin, you must have a valid, functional account. This can be a free trial account or one set up for you by a RingRx sales representative.
How do I start the porting process with RingRx?
We manage most of the process for you. Begin by completing our Port Request Form. You’ll need details about your current phone service provider, including address, account number/pin and a copy (if available) of your most recent account statement. The next step is to sign a Letter of Authorization, as required by the FCC.
A couple of important notes about the RingRx porting process:
- The service provider you are moving away from (also known as your “losing carrier”) will reject a port if any information we submit to them is inaccurate or inconsistent with their records.
- Only active and in-service numbers can be ported from one service provider to another. Therefore, ensure that you maintain your current phone service until porting is complete.
Additional resources for porting with RingRx
At RingRx, our business-class phone system is built specifically for healthcare practices. It offers numerous benefits, including cost savings and scalability, as well as HD Voice and unlimited calls, texts, and faxes, ensuring effective communication — even when you’re out of the office. Schedule a demo today to learn more!
If you have additional questions about porting your number to RingRx, please email our Port Team at ports@ringrx.com.
