When reviewing a delinquent claim, what should a billing and coding specialist do first?

When reviewing a delinquent claim, the first step a billing and coding specialist should take is to verify the age of the account. This is important because understanding how long the claim has been outstanding influences the subsequent actions to be taken. Claims that are delinquent for a longer period may have different protocols for follow-up, and determining the age helps in prioritizing which claims to address first.

If the claim is recent, it may still be within the insurance company’s processing timeline. However, if it's been overdue for an extended period, it may require a more urgent response, such as contacting the insurance company or initiating a collection process. Understanding the age of the account also aids in compliance with follow-up procedures and timelines set by insurance guidelines.

By starting with this step, the billing and coding specialist can ensure that they approach the situation strategically, focusing on the most pressing claims first and optimizing the resolution process. This initial assessment sets the stage for any further actions, such as validating codes or checking for errors, which are best informed by the age of the claim in question.