Improving Accounts Receivable for Effective Revenue Cycle Management

Why This Topic Matters

Accounts receivable is a key indicator of how effectively a healthcare organization is getting paid for services already rendered. Understanding the article helps readers evaluate collection performance, recognize factors that can slow reimbursement, and identify broad areas where revenue cycle processes may be strengthened.

Article Sections

1. Accounts receivable and revenue cycle management

   Introduces the relationship between receivables, billing workflows, and revenue cycle management in healthcare settings. Summarizes the operational areas that affect payment and collection performance.

2. Measuring days in AR - a key performance indicator

   Explains how receivables aging is used as a performance measure and discusses the role of benchmarks. Describes the general structure of aging buckets and the importance of tracking days in AR.

3. What causes increase in A/R days?

   Reviews broad factors that can contribute to slower receivables performance for both payer and patient balances. Covers common operational and administrative issues discussed in the article.

4. Strategies to improve A/R and RCM

   Outlines general process improvement areas across the revenue cycle, including front-end, mid-cycle, and post-adjudication activities. Summarizes recommended management practices and reporting approaches.