Charge posting refers to the process of entering billing codes and associated charges into the medical billing system after a patient visit. It typically begins with a superbill a document containing diagnosis codes, procedure codes, and provider details. From there, the information is reviewed and submitted by the charge entry team to generate claims for payer reimbursement.
At this stage, even a minor error such as incorrect patient demographics, outdated codes, or missing information can lead to significant consequences. These include claim denials, delayed payments, or underpayments, all of which can disrupt the revenue cycle. This highlights the crucial importance of accuracy and speed in charge posting.
Importance of Accurate Charge Entry
Charge posting is the foundation of clean claims and successful reimbursements. Here’s why precision matters:
- Prevents claim denials due to incorrect or missing data
- Ensures compliance with payer-specific guidelines
- Speeds up the revenue cycle and cash flow
- Enhances reporting and audit readiness
- Reduces the burden of rework and administrative costs
Key Steps in the Healthcare Billing Cycle (Including Charge Posting)
Understanding how charge posting fits into the broader medical billing process helps ensure that nothing is missed. Below are the eight essential steps:
- Patient Registration – Collecting demographic and insurance details
- Verification of Benefits (VOB) – Confirming patient coverage and copays
- Superbill Generation – Recording services provided and clinical codes
- Charge Posting – Entering CPT/ICD-10 codes and fees into the system
- Claim Submission – Sending claims to payers, usually via clearinghouses
- Claim Adjudication – Payers review and respond with approvals or denials
- Patient Billing – Sending statements for any unpaid balances
- Follow-up & Appeals – Resolving denials or payment discrepancies
What Happens During Charge Posting?
- The charge posting workflow includes the following:
- Entering procedure (CPT) and diagnosis (ICD-10) codes
- Including necessary modifiers based on service type and payer
- Verifying provider, location, and date of service
- Ensuring all charges align with payer and state-specific rules
- Flagging discrepancies or potential coding errors for correction
A skilled charge entry team is a key asset in the medical billing process. Their expertise enables them to minimise claim rejections by adhering to payer guidelines, utilising coding validation tools, and staying informed about regulatory changes. This instils confidence in the accuracy and efficiency of the process.
Why outsource charge entry services in medical billing?
Many healthcare providers outsource charge posting to experienced medical billing companies. Here’s why:
1. Error-Free Processing
Outsourcing ensures that your charge posting is handled by experts who understand payer requirements, reducing the chances of denials or rejections.
2. Regulatory Compliance
Most medical billing firms are HIPAA-compliant and follow strict data security protocols to safeguard Protected Health Information (PHI).
3. Access to Technology
Billing companies use advanced billing and coding tools, such as [specific tools or software], ensuring higher accuracy and faster turnaround times.
4. Improved Cash Flow
Faster and more accurate charge posting means claims are processed more quickly, reducing number of days in Accounts Receivable (A/R) and improving revenue.
5. Scalability & Flexibility
Outsourcing allows your practice to scale quickly without increasing in-house administrative burden.
Common Challenges in Charge Posting
Despite its importance, charge posting faces hurdles like:
- Staff shortages or overworked billing teams
- Inaccurate or incomplete superbills
- Outdated coding knowledge
- Lack of regular audits
- Poor coordination between clinical and billing departments
Outsourcing helps alleviate these issues and ensures that claims are submitted correctly and on time.
Final Thoughts
Charge posting in medical billing is more than just entering numbers—it’s about ensuring providers are fairly compensated for their services. When done right, it accelerates reimbursement, reduces denials, and strengthens the financial health of your practice. If you’re struggling with charge posting, consider outsourcing to a trusted partner like Medix Revenue Group.
At Medix Revenue Group, our team ensures error-free charge posting, working closely with your coding and billing departments to streamline the entire process. By outsourcing to a trusted partner, you can reduce claim denials and improve cash flow, saving thousands in lost revenue.
Looking for Professional Charge Posting Services?
Let Medix Revenue Group handle your charge entry and medical billing needs. Contact us today to boost your revenue cycle performance with our expert solutions.