Final answer:
The process is called cycle billing, where accounts are split into groups with staggered statement mailing dates.
Step-by-step explanation:
The process of patient billing where accounts are split into groups with staggered statement mailing dates is known as cycle billing. This approach is used to manage the workload of billing and to ensure that statements are sent out to patients in a consistent and timely manner.
Cycle billing involves dividing the patient accounts into different batches or cycles. Each cycle has a designated mailing date, and statements for that cycle are generated and sent out on that date. By staggering the mailing dates, the billing department can distribute the workload more efficiently and avoid overwhelming the staff.
For example, if a hospital has thousands of patient accounts, it would be inefficient to generate and mail statements for all accounts on the same day. Instead, they may split the accounts into weekly cycles, with each cycle having a different mailing date. This allows the billing staff to focus on a smaller number of accounts each week, ensuring that statements are accurate and delivered on time.