When reviewing paperwork showing overpayment of Medicare for multiple patients, what is this process called?

The process of reviewing paperwork that indicates an overpayment by Medicare for multiple patients is referred to as an audit. In the context of healthcare and billing, an audit involves a systematic review of records, claims, and payments to ensure accuracy and compliance with regulatory standards. This typically includes examining financial transactions and determining whether the amounts billed were appropriate and correctly processed.

An audit can involve various forms of analysis, such as evaluating documentation for medical necessity, verifying coding accuracy, and confirming that payments align with federal guidelines. It serves not only to identify any discrepancies or overpayments but also to uphold accountability and transparency within the healthcare billing process.

While options like review, assessment, and verification may seem relevant, they do not convey the comprehensive and formal characteristics that define an audit. A review generally refers to a general examination without the same level of detail or structured approach. An assessment may imply a broader evaluation of patient care or service quality rather than focusing specifically on billing and payment issues. Verification is usually about confirming specific details or facts but doesn't encompass the in-depth inspection of financial records that an audit entails. Thus, audit is the most precise term for this scenario.