Is it more efficient to just collect the full price of materials at time of ordering, as opposed to paying half down?

I think so. Why transact twice?

Most of our patients have VCPs paying half or more...the overages definitely are collected upon order.

For private pay, I guess the less-discounted price justifies a second transaction, but with 10% private pay (in my case...maybe yours) wouldn't it be better to be consistent for the staff?