Revenue cycle management (RCM) is the process healthcare organizations use to manage financial operations related to billing and collecting revenue for medical services. RCM begins when a patient schedules an appointment and ends when the account balance is resolved through reconciliation of insurance payments, contractual adjustments, write-offs, or patient payments.

RCM helps strengthen revenue by minimizing claim denials, reducing days in accounts receivable, and increasing collections. As a result, healthcare providers receive correct and timely payments and optimize financial performance. Effective RCM also can help healthcare organizations comply with regulatory requirements and improve patient satisfaction.