The healthcare industry is entering an exciting era of transformation, filled with opportunities to innovate and improve. Revenue cycle management (RCM) processes are at the forefront of this progress, offering a chance to streamline workflows, eliminate errors and address workforce challenges with creative solutions. Automation, driven by powerful technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and robotic process automation (RPA), unlocks new possibilities.
By shifting repetitive, low-level tasks to automation, healthcare organizations can achieve greater efficiency, boost financial performance and deliver exceptional patient care.
Below, we’ve outlined critical questions healthcare organizations should pose to RCM technology partners as they seek to embrace AI and automation to meet their financial goals.
1. How quickly can the solution be implemented without disrupting day-to-day operations?
2. Does the vendor have experience working with healthcare organizations like mine in size and specialty?
3. What kind of implementation support will we receive? Will there be a dedicated team or 24/7 assistance available?
4. Does the vendor offer training for my team, and are resources available for ongoing education?
Why It’s Important
The implementation phase determines how smoothly organizations transition to an automated RCM workflow. Asking about implementation timelines and support helps ensure operations remain uninterrupted as new technology is integrated.
Furthermore, a partner experienced in healthcare RCM will be better equipped to address specific challenges and develop tailored solutions. Support and training options also empower teams to confidently adapt to the changes during the implementation process and increase adoption success.
1. Does the solution automate redundant tasks, allowing my staff to focus on more complex cases?
2. Can the automation be tailored to fit the specific workflows we wish to optimize?
3. Is the user interface intuitive and accessible for staff of all skill levels?
4. Does the solution integrate seamlessly with existing EHRs and tech stacks?
Why It’s Important
The best automation solutions complement rather than complicate existing systems. Ensuring compatibility with an organization’s technology stack prevents data silos and reduces manual work. Customization options allow alignment with unique workflows, while user-friendly designs encourage widespread adoption among the team. This results in streamlined operations and improved efficiency across departments.
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1. Will teams receive consistent communication and access to automation best practices as new challenges arise?
2. Is the solution scalable to meet future growth needs of organizations?
3. Does the vendor offer ongoing training sessions to ensure ROI and staff proficiency?
Why It’s Important
Automation is not a set-it-and-forget-it investment. A strong partnership provides continuous support and collaboration, tracking goals and adapting as an organization’s needs evolve. Communication, scalability and ongoing training amplify the long-term value of the solution, helping the automation program grow alongside the organization.
1. What type of performance reports are included, and how often are they provided?
2. Are the analytics presented in an easy-to-digest format, enabling data-driven decisions?
3. Does the solution include tools for benchmarking performance and identifying gaps?
Why It’s Important
The ability to track and analyze performance is vital to measuring ROI and other impacts of an automation solution. Automation analytics provide actionable insights, helping organizations identify inefficiencies, improve accuracy and enhance the patient financial experience. Regular performance tracking enables continuous improvement and helps ensure the investment remains aligned with organizational objectives.
1. Is the solution certified with industry-leading security standards such as HITRUST and HIPAA?
2. Does the vendor implement encryption protocols to protect access and data?
3. Does the solution include resources for deployment across multiple locations?
Why It’s Important
Patient privacy and data security are non-negotiable in healthcare. It’s critical vendors meet stringent industry standards to protect against breaches and build trust with patients. Robust security measures, such as encryption and compliance with regulatory guidelines, safeguard sensitive information while maintaining operational integrity.
Taking the time to thoroughly evaluate potential partners helps ensure that the automation solution aligns with organizational goals, challenges and growth trajectory. The right questions allow a determination as to whether a vendor is truly a partner invested in your success or simply a supplier of tools.
By addressing key areas such as implementation, compatibility, customer success, analytics and security, the risk of disruption is reduced, underperformance is a non-issue or and there are no missed opportunities. The result? A revenue cycle transformed into a high-performing, patient-focused operation.
Automation has the power to revolutionize healthcare RCM—but success begins with informed decision-making. Use these questions as a starting point to find the partner who’ll deliver measurable impact and guide organizations to confidently into the future.
Learn how FinThrive can help your organization embrace automation and drive better patient care here.