1. Read: Discussion Background
Healthcare employers across the nation have indicated the need for individuals who understand claims processing and billing regulations, possess accurate basic coding skills, have the ability to successfully appeal underpaid or denied insurance claims, and demonstrate workplace professionalism.
Complete the MBC Mid-Program review module to answer this week’s discussion prompts.
MBC Mid-Program Review Module
2. Initial Post: Create a new thread and answer all three parts of the initial prompt below
- Describe what professionalism means to you
- Identify what you think is the most important topic presented in the review module and explain how it affects the patient to payment process (revenue cycle).
- Explain one possible issue that could arise if insurance is not verified during the check-in process.
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
In the field of healthcare, it is crucial for medical college students to develop a strong understanding of claims processing and billing regulations, as well as possess accurate basic coding skills. Additionally, students must demonstrate professionalism in the workplace and be able to effectively appeal underpaid or denied insurance claims. In this context, this assignment focuses on discussing the meaning of professionalism, identifying the most important topic presented in the review module and its impact on the patient-to-payment process, and highlighting a potential issue that can arise if insurance is not verified during the check-in process.
1. Describe what professionalism means to you:
Professionalism, to me, encompasses a set of qualities and behaviors that include a high level of competence, ethical conduct, and a commitment to the welfare and best interests of both patients and colleagues. It involves upholding the values and standards of the medical profession, such as maintaining confidentiality, showing respect for diversity, and maintaining a professional demeanor in all interactions. Professionalism also entails effective communication, both with patients and healthcare team members, and a willingness to collaborate and work as part of a team. Additionally, professionalism includes taking responsibility for one’s actions, continuously striving for personal and professional growth, and adhering to the principles of evidence-based practice.
2. Identify the most important topic presented in the review module and explain how it affects the patient-to-payment process (revenue cycle):
The most important topic presented in the review module is claims processing and billing regulations. This topic plays a pivotal role in the patient-to-payment process, also known as the revenue cycle. Claims processing involves submitting accurate and comprehensive documentation to insurance companies for reimbursement, ensuring that proper coding is utilized. By understanding claims processing and billing regulations, healthcare professionals can minimize claim denials and underpayments, improving the revenue cycle efficiency.
When claims are submitted with errors or incomplete information, it can lead to delays in reimbursement or even claim denials. This directly affects the patient-to-payment process, as delayed or denied claims result in delayed revenue for healthcare facilities. In turn, this can impact the availability of resources necessary for providing quality patient care. Furthermore, healthcare organizations may need to allocate additional staff and time to address claim issues and appeal denials, diverting resources from other essential tasks. Thus, a thorough understanding of claims processing and billing regulations is crucial for healthcare professionals to ensure timely and accurate reimbursement, ultimately supporting the financial sustainability and operational effectiveness of healthcare organizations.
3. Explain one possible issue that could arise if insurance is not verified during the check-in process:
If insurance is not verified during the check-in process, it can lead to various problems and complications for both patients and healthcare providers. One possible issue that could arise is the risk of providing services that are not covered or partially covered by the patient’s insurance plan. Without insurance verification, healthcare providers may proceed with providing treatments, diagnostic tests, or procedures without knowledge of coverage limitations or pre-authorization requirements.
As a result, patients may face unexpected out-of-pocket expenses, which can lead to financial burden and potential difficulties in accessing necessary healthcare services in the future. This lack of insurance verification can also strain the relationship between patients and healthcare providers, as patients may feel frustrated or misled when they receive bills they were not prepared for.
From the healthcare provider’s perspective, not verifying insurance during check-in can disrupt the revenue cycle. Uncovered services may not be reimbursed fully or may be denied altogether, leading to financial losses for the healthcare organization. Additionally, the process of resolving disputed claims or collecting payment from patients can be time-consuming and resource-intensive.
Overall, insurance verification during the check-in process is crucial to ensure appropriate financial arrangements and avoid potential financial burdens for patients, as well as to support the financial stability of healthcare organizations.
