Which step occurs first in the claims process after data completion?

In the claims process, the first step that occurs after data completion is the transmission of claims data to payers via a clearinghouse. A clearinghouse acts as an intermediary that consolidates, formats, and securely sends healthcare claims from providers to various payers (insurance companies). This step is critical because it ensures that the claims data is correctly formatted according to the payer's requirements and facilitates the electronic transfer of information.

Once the cleared claims data is received by the payer, they can then proceed to the next steps, which include validating the claims, determining payment eligibility, and ultimately generating the remittance advice once claims processing is complete. Thus, transmitting the claims data is the foundational action that allows the subsequent steps in the claims process to be executed effectively.