The 5 Biggest Risks of Revenue Cycle Management Outsourcing and How to Avoid Them

Revenue cycle management (RCM) is one of the essential components of running a successful healthcare practice. Unfortunately, this also means that, if not managed correctly, it can become a huge liability for your business. Outsourcing RCM services can be an excellent solution for managing this process, but it’s essential to be aware of its potential liabilities. 

In this blog post, we’ll discuss the five most significant drawbacks of Revenue Cycle Management Outsourcing and how to resolve them with the help of HealthRev.

1) Lack of Control

One of the most significant potential liabilities of RCM outsourcing is the lack of control. Companies that outsource their billing can feel like they’re not in the driver’s seat, and if things go wrong, it can be difficult to remedy them without intervention from the service provider. This is a significant concern for organizations that are sensitive to how their billing is handled and want to maintain a close watch on the process.

The key to resolving this potential liability is to choose a service provider that offers a comprehensive level of control. For example, HealthRev allows organizations to customize their billing processes and access detailed reports so you can monitor all activity. We also offer a real-time, online portal that lets customers stay up to date on their accounts receivable data and have complete visibility into the progress of their billing efforts. With these tools, organizations can be confident that they have full oversight and control over their revenue cycle management process.

2) Security Concerns

One of the most significant risks of outsourcing RCM is the fear of sensitive data being compromised or stolen. Healthcare providers must ensure that patient and financial data are secure and HIPAA-compliant. Poorly managed data security could lead to costly fines and legal issues.

To resolve security concerns, healthcare providers should carefully vet potential vendors. The right service provider should have a well-established reputation in the industry and robust security protocols. For example, HealthRev has worked tirelessly to help our clients with their revenue cycle management for over thirty years. This has made us a trusted name in the healthcare industry.

3) Poor Communication

When it comes to revenue cycle management outsourcing, poor communication can be a significant problem. Poor communication between clients and service providers can lead to costly missteps, misunderstandings, and delays in getting paid.

When selecting an RCM service provider, look for one with clear and consistent communication channels with their clients. Communication should be two-way, with providers able to ask questions and clients able to voice their expectations. Clear lines of communication will help make sure that both sides know what their roles are and what they can expect from the process.

4) High Turnover

A high turnover rate is one of the most common problems with outsourcing revenue cycle management. When staff leaves, it can cause disruption and delays, resulting in a decrease in efficiency and an increase in errors. 

Companies should choose an experienced and reliable provider with a low turnover rate to address this issue. Ask your provider about their average tenure of employees and how they handle staff transitions when they occur. Companies should also request references from current clients to get feedback on their performance over time.

5) Hidden Costs

Hidden costs are one of the most significant liabilities you may face when outsourcing revenue cycle management. Understanding what services are included in your contract and the associated costs for each service are essential.

Additionally, many companies have additional fees for software licenses, installation fees, and training fees. It would be best if you always asked your service provider about any other fees associated with the services provided. A detailed list of all services and associated costs will help you avoid surprise expenses.

Bottom Line!

RCM is integral to every medical practice, and choosing the right outsourcing partner can ensure it is done correctly and efficiently. While some potential liabilities are associated with outsourcing revenue cycle management, working with an experienced service provider can minimize these liabilities. 

HealthRev offers a comprehensive, secure, and reliable RCM solution that can help reduce risk, boost efficiency, and save money. With our dedicated staff and advanced technology, you can ensure that your revenue cycle management needs are met without any of the abovementioned liabilities. To learn more about how HealthRev can help your medical practice unlock its revenue potential, visit our website today.