Introduction to Revenue Cycle Management (RCM) in Healthcare Revenue Cycle Management (RCM) is the financial process that healthcare facilities use to track patient care episodes from registration and appointment scheduling to the final payment of a balance. It encompasses the entire life cycle of a patient account from creation to payment. RCM is crucial for healthcare providers as it directly affects the bottom line and the quality of patient care they can offer. Efficient RCM processes ensure that healthcare providers are reimbursed in a timely manner for the services they provide. This is not just about getting paid; it's about maintaining a healthy cash flow that enables providers to invest in the latest medical technologies, hire skilled staff, and ultimately deliver better patient care. When RCM is handled effectively, it reduces billing errors, minimizes claim denials, and speeds up the payment process, leading to increased revenue and a more stable financial positi...