Charge Entry and Revenue Cycle Management Understanding the Connection
In healthcare, managing the financial health of a practice is just as important as delivering excellent patient care. A key element of this financial process is charge entry, an integral part of revenue cycle management (RCM).
Confused about the charge entry? You’re not alone. Charge entry—the process of recording medical services and fees into medical billing systems—is the foundation of your revenue cycle. A single error can cause denials, delays, or lost revenue. Let’s break it down!
What Is Charge Entry in Medical Billing?
Charge entry involves translating healthcare services (e.g., exams, procedures) into billable codes (CPT, ICD-10) and entering them into practice management software. It’s the first step in claims processing.
Charge Entry vs. Charge Posting:
- Charge Entry: Inputting data into the system.
- Charge Posting: Finalizing and sending claims from the system to payers.
Why It Matters
A 2024 MGMA Report found that 65% of denials stem from charge entry errors like typos or incorrect codes. Fixing these costs clinics $25 per claim on average.
Key Takeaway: Accurate charge entry = faster payments + happier patients.
Top 10 Charge Entry Tools for Medical Billing in 2025
(Ranked by accuracy, ease of use, and integration)
- AthenaCollector (Best Overall)
- AI-driven error detection + seamless EHR integration.
- Ideal for: Large practices needing scalability.
- Kareo Billing
- User-friendly + robust denial management.
- Perfect for: Small clinics on a budget.
- AdvancedMD
- Customizable templates + real-time audits.
- NextGen Healthcare
- Auto-code suggestions + HIPAA-compliant.
- DrChrono
- Mobile app + patient payment portal.
- eClinicalWorks
- Batch charge entry + RCM analytics.
- Practice Fusion
- Free plan + intuitive drag-and-drop interface.
- Cerner Charge Services
- Hospital-grade security + multi-location support.
- SimplePractice
- Therapy-specific codes + superb customer support.
- RevFlow
- AI audits + 99.9% claim accuracy guarantee.
3 Must-Have Features in 2025 Charge Entry Tools
- Automated Error Checks: Tools like RevFlow flag mismatched codes before
- Integration with EHR/EMR: Avoid double entry (e.g., DrChrono syncs notes to billing).
- Real-Time Analytics: Track trends (e.g., which codes get denied most).
Pro Tip: Test tools offering free training—clinics using AdvancedMD’s tutorials reduced errors by 50% in 3 months.
How to Optimize Charge Entry: A 4-Step Tutorial
- Audit Workflows: Identify bottlenecks (e.g., manual data entry).
- Train Staff: Certify coders annually; use vendor webinars.
- Leverage AI: Tools like NextGen auto-suggest codes based on notes.
- Monitor Metrics: Aim for <2% error rate (industry gold standard).
Case Study: A Texas clinic cut denials by 70% after switching to eClinicalWorks’ batch entry + AI audits.
Why Charge Entry Accuracy Can’t Be Ignored
Incorrect codes don’t just hurt revenue—they risk audits or compliance violations. For example, upcoding (billing for a pricier service) can lead to $10,000+ fines per claim under the False Claims Act.
Here’s the kicker: Clean charge entry boosts patient trust. Tools like SimplePractice let patients view charges in real-time, reducing disputes.
Conclusion
Charge entry is a vital step inside the Revenue Cycle Management method that directly influences the accuracy of claims, the velocity of compensation, and the general economic fitness of a healthcare practice. By optimizing rate access methods via first-rate practices like personnel training, period use, and right documentation.
Need Help? Tell the practice’s size to our Expert I’ll recommend your perfect one too.
