What is the role of the coverage manager in the billing process?

The role of the coverage manager in the billing process is primarily focused on ensuring that the coverage for services rendered is accurate and that any retroactive changes to Hospital Billing (HB) Hospital Account Records (HARs) are properly tracked and managed. This involves monitoring changes in insurance coverage, including updates that may affect a patient's financial responsibility or the amount the provider is able to collect.

Tracking retroactive changes is crucial because it ensures that any modifications in a patient's insurance status, whether due to policy changes or updates from insurance providers, are properly reflected in the billing process. This helps avoid discrepancies and ensures that claims are billed correctly, which can ultimately improve collections and decrease the risk of denials or delays in payment.

While the other options touch on important aspects of the billing process, they do not align specifically with the primary responsibilities of a coverage manager. Finalizing patient accounts, compiling insurance claims, and prioritizing accounts focus on other roles within the billing team that handle different stages of the billing cycle.