What does a billing cycle encompass?

A billing cycle encompasses the entire process from the point of service provision to the collection of payment. This includes several key steps: the initial delivery of medical services, the generation of a bill, the submission of insurance claims, and the eventual collection of payments from both insurers and patients. Understanding this full cycle is crucial for medical office staff as it affects cash flow and financial stability of the practice. Recognizing all components involved helps ensure that bills are processed efficiently and payments are tracked appropriately. This comprehensive view distinguishes it from the other options, which focus on narrower aspects of the billing process.