What is "medical billing"?

Medical billing is primarily defined as the process of submitting claims to insurance companies and other payers to receive payment for healthcare services provided to patients. This process involves several crucial steps, starting from the collection of patient information, coding of diagnoses and procedures, to the actual filing of claims. The goal of medical billing is to ensure that healthcare providers are compensated for their services accurately and in a timely manner.

This function is essential for the financial health of medical practices and healthcare providers, as it directly impacts their revenue cycle management. It requires familiarity with insurance policies, medical codes, and billing regulations to ensure compliance and maximize reimbursement.

The other options pertain to different aspects of healthcare. Providing patient care directly involves clinical responsibilities rather than administrative duties. Scheduling appointments relates to managing a healthcare provider’s calendar, which is a supportive function but does not encompass billing. Conducting patient assessments focuses on evaluating patients' health conditions, which is a core clinical activity. Thus, none of these alternatives correctly describe the specific process of medical billing.