What is the first step in the claim submission process?

The first step in the claim submission process involves the health insurance specialist completing the electronic or paper-based claim. This initial stage is crucial because it lays the groundwork for the entire billing process. The specialist gathers and enters all relevant patient information, service details, and associated codes that are necessary for adjudicating the claim. This meticulous attention to detail ensures that the claim accurately reflects the services provided, which is essential for proper reimbursement from the insurance payer.

Once the claim has been completed, it can then move on to subsequent steps, such as batching and submission to a clearinghouse for processing and verification. This foundational action sets the stage for all later activities in the claim submission workflow. Without accurately completed claims, the chances of rejection or denial by insurers significantly increase, highlighting the importance of this critical first step.