What is the primary function of the Patient Accounting department in a hospital?

The primary function of the Patient Accounting department in a hospital is to manage hospital billing and revenue. This department is responsible for ensuring that all services rendered to patients are accurately billed to insurers and patients. This includes tasks such as generating bills, processing payments, managing accounts receivable, and ensuring compliance with financial regulations.

Effective management of billing and revenue is essential for the financial health of the hospital. It facilitates a smooth flow of revenue, ensures that services provided are compensated appropriately, and helps in maintaining the hospital's operational capabilities.

By focusing on the financial aspects, the Patient Accounting department plays a critical role in the overall revenue cycle, supporting the hospital’s sustainability and capacity to deliver quality care. This function sits apart from other areas like patient care protocols, staff training, and medical records management, which are important but serve different roles within the healthcare institution.