Surprise! The Top Revenue Cycle Management Challenges Haven’t Changed Much Through Q1 2025

Revenue Cycle Management remains one of the most critical, and complex, components of running a successful healthcare organization. The healthcare landscape has evolved and will continue to do so. Thus far through Q1 2025, the pressure is mounting with tighter regulations, staff shortages, and payer requirements. As much as we dislike hearing what we already know, the list of most pesky issues ailing healthcare organizations still will hit close to home.

1. Staffing Shortages and High Turnover

Across the board, healthcare organizations are grappling with workforce shortages — and the RCM side of the house is no exception. Skilled billing and coding professionals are in high demand, and many practices are dealing with unexpected turnover that disrupts cash flow and delays claims processing. Outsourcing and automation are helping fill the gap, but training and retention remain major concerns.

2. Complex Payer Requirements

Payers continue to update their policies such as pre-auth requirements, fee schedules, and limits— often with little to no notice. Practices must stay vigilant to keep up with changes that impact billing accuracy. Denials are increasingly tied to missing documentation, incorrect modifiers, or failure to follow the latest payer-specific rules. 

3. Prior Authorization Delays

Prior authorizations are a bottleneck, and reports continue to show that delays are contributing to care disruptions and increased administrative burden. Despite growing calls for reform, many clinics still struggle with manual processes and long wait times that hurt both patient satisfaction and revenue.

4. Patient Responsibility & Collections

High-deductible health plans have made patient responsibility a growing share of revenue. But collecting from patients remains one of the most difficult, and time-consuming aspects of RCM. Many providers are turning to digital tools — like text-to-pay and patient portals — to streamline collections and improve the patient's financial experience. 

5. Denials and Rejections

Payers continue to deny claims at high rates — studies are still finding that 10-15% of claims are denied on first submission! Inadequate front-end processes, missing codes, and eligibility issues are often the culprits. A strong denials management strategy, including tracking trends and appealing consistently and on time, is more crucial than ever.

6. Keeping Up with Regulatory Changes

Regulatory shifts such as the No Surprises Act, changes in CMS guidelines, and evolving HIPAA compliance rules add layers of complexity. Practices must be proactive in staying compliant to avoid penalties and ensure smooth reimbursement.

7. Data & Technology Challenges

Many practices still work with legacy systems that don’t communicate well with EHRs or clearinghouses. Without clean data and integrated platforms, it's hard to track performance metrics or identify revenue leakage. Investing in modern RCM tools is key to improving efficiency and cash flow.

The revenue cycle process is no longer just a back-office function — it’s a strategic asset that directly impacts patient care and the financial health of your organization. Staying ahead of these challenges requires a mix of process optimization, technology investment, and dedicated RCM expertise.

Whether you're currently billing in-house or outsourcing to an RCM partner, staying informed and adaptable is the name of the game. Contact Access1 Business Services today to schedule your free revenue cycle health check! There is nothing to lose, and everything to gain by having a new set of eyes taking a peek at the mechanics of what is challenging your office.