Causes of Medical Coding Backlogs & How to Fix Them?
Accurate, high-quality medical coding is essential for ensuring prompt and precise reimbursements. Any issues during the coding process can result in lengthy rejections and expensive denials, creating a bottleneck in the revenue cycle. This can lead to backlogs, extended accounts receivable (A/R) periods, and postponed payments. Identifying the underlying reasons for medical coding backlogs and applying effective solutions is crucial for maintaining efficient revenue operations. In this blog, we'll examine four frequent causes of coding delays and discuss practical strategies for addressing them. What are Medical Coding Backlogs? A collection of medical records or cases that require coding within a specific deadline. When a significant backlog occurs, it can lead to various challenges for medical coders. Why Do Medical Coding Backlogs Happen? Here’s How to Solve Them 1. Staff Shortages One of the most prevalent reasons for medical coding backlogs is adequate staffing. Staff shorta...