What is one consequence of improper charge capture?

Improper charge capture can lead to incorrect financial reporting, which is a significant consequence that affects the overall integrity of a healthcare organization’s financial data. When charges are not accurately captured, it can result in the misrepresentation of revenue and expenses, leading to financial statements that do not reflect the true economic reality of the organization. This misreporting can have implications not only for internal management decisions but also for external stakeholders, including audits, compliance with regulations, and overall financial health.

The integrity of financial reporting is crucial in healthcare settings since it influences budgeting, planning, and assessments of operational efficiency. Moreover, inaccurate financial reporting may attract regulatory scrutiny, harm the organization's reputation, and potentially result in legal consequences due to non-compliance with financial regulations.