What is the primary purpose of an encounter report?

The primary purpose of an encounter report is to inform health plans of treated patients and the services rendered during a medical encounter. This report serves as an essential document that details the visit, including diagnoses, procedures performed, and any follow-up care recommended. Health plans use this information for billing and reimbursement purposes, ensuring that the providers are compensated for services rendered to their patients.

Encounter reports also play a critical role in documenting patient interactions within the healthcare system, which helps in coding and tracking for insurance claims. Properly utilized, they ensure that both the healthcare provider and the health plan have a clear record of the services provided, facilitating effective communication and supporting the revenue cycle management of physician practices.