Oncology procedures are expensive. They also have various clinical and non-clinical complexities. To have efficient oncology billing operations it is imperative to have good knowledge of the entire billing process. Without knowing the basics, billing claims are likely to be riddled with errors.
Despite seeming ominous, the basics of billing for oncology procedures like Lumpectomy are quite simple. By understanding the basics, providers can identify which specific areas of the billing process they need to focus on.
Focus on These Oncology Billing Basics for Improved Operational Performance
Broadly there are two billing stages in all specialties. They are called the pre-billing and the post-billing stages. But in terms of the basics of oncology billing workflows, it is best to categorize them into three groups. These groups are Operational, Reimbursement-related, and Quality assurance.
Here is a detailed description of all the three billing basics:
1) Operational
These are foundational concepts about the operational structure of the billing workflow. In terms of operational basics, providers should ensure their processes are in line with the flow of information from patients, payers, and billing team members. For a solid operational foundation, providers should have registration, insurance verification, and the rest of the billing processes in order. Depending on their unique requirements, providers can also choose to have audits in place, but we will discuss that after the second oncology billing basic.
2) Reimbursement-related
After patient care, reimbursements are probably the most important part of healthcare. Without reimbursements, delivering medical services becomes unsustainable for providers. And so, to avoid these reimbursement challenges, providers should do their best to minimize billing errors at their end. Oncology practices and physicians can ensure their billing staff understand reimbursement guidelines for different types of payers and procedures.
3) Quality assurance
Quality analysis of claims is extremely important. It is so vital that providers have changed this from a billing best practice to an operational necessity. Every oncology practice will have its unique requirements. Based on their strengths and weaknesses, they should have audits and quality checks in place. For example, if coding errors are common, there should be a coding audit before the claim can be billed.
Streamline Workflows with Oncology Billing Services
Oncology billing services support providers’ non-clinical admin requirements. They specialize in completing billing tasks that help physicians get reimbursed for their services. With expert billing support, providers can continue to focus on clinical functions without having to worry about reimbursements getting delayed.
Small practices find oncology billing services of great use because they help these providers reduce their operational expenses by up to 80%. Providers also get the chance to make the most of these billing experts’ streamlined workflows and comprehensive guides.
To learn more about how our oncology billing services have helped oncologists in Texas cut down practice management costs by over 30% in the first month, please contact Sunknowledge Services Inc., a HIPAA-compliant revenue cycle management organization serving US healthcare providers & payers since 2007.