From automating documentation to engaging patients with virtual assistants, AI can bring immediate value to non-acute providers in seven key areas:

1. AUTOMATE REVENUE CYCLE MANAGEMENT

AI can streamline revenue cycle processes, including claims processing, payment reconciliation and claims denial management. This helps non-acute facilities improve accounts receivable and overall profitability.

By automating revenue cycle tasks, facilities can reduce errors, accelerate accurate reimbursements and lower operational costs. These benefits can strengthen providers’ financial performance so they can reinvest in care delivery and patient services. AI can also help patients understand costs.

“If we can implement strategies like real-time insurance card scanning, eligibility checks and algorithms that accurately estimate patient portions—ensuring transparency and giving patients options—it empowers them and makes them feel in control,” according to an article in Becker’s ASC Review. “By using live animations and illustrations to explain benefits in a digestible way, patients are more likely to pay at the time of treatment.”

2. REDUCE TIME SPENT ON CLINICAL DOCUMENTATION

Many providers spend between 20% to 50% of their time on clinical documentation, according to the Becker’s article. Budgeting significant time for documentation pulls staff away from patient care.

AI can help by transcribing and summarizing clinical notes, easing the burden on clinical staff. Plus, AI-based tools capture patient interactions in real time, automatically organizing notes into structured formats and integrating with electronic health records to reduce manual data entry.

“AI tools can make documentation more accurate, reduce the time spent on paperwork and help healthcare workers focus more on their patients,” according to DeepCura.

3. AUTOMATE REPEATABLE PROCESSES

From staff scheduling to financial reporting, AI can support repeatable, data-heavy processes that consume valuable staff time. The technology enables faster decision-making and better resource allocation.

“Administrative burdens, redundant tasks and even some front-office responsibilities can be delegated to AI,” according to Infinitus. “AI will not replace human roles but rather redefine and enhance them, contributing to reduced errors, shortened wait times and overall improved quality of life for staff.”

By automating routine processes, non-acute facilities can free up employees to focus on higher-value work. This work can include patient interactions, quality improvement initiatives, and operational planning that drives better outcomes for the facility and patients.

4. OPTIMIZE CLINICAL AND PATIENT WORKFLOWS

AI can help non-acute facilities better optimize their clinical and patient workflows by predicting potential issues, such as bottlenecks, before they occur. Using AI to analyze scheduling patterns, patient volumes and resource needs can help organizations make proactive and strategic adjustments to improve operations.

AI can also detect workflow inefficiencies that may not be obvious to staff. Employees can then recommend adjustments such as reprioritizing tasks, reallocating resources or adjusting staff schedules to maximize efficiency and reduce delays.
 
The result is improved patient satisfaction through shorter wait times and smoother experiences. Other benefits include better use of staff time, allowing employees to focus on direct patient care and other high-priority tasks.