What document is required for billing a patient's third-party payer for an office visit?

The 837P/CMS-1500 claim form is crucial for billing a patient's third-party payer for an office visit because it serves as the official format used to submit healthcare claims. This standardized form contains important information regarding the patient, the services provided, and the healthcare provider.

Using this claim form allows for efficient processing by insurance companies, ensuring that the claims are reviewed and paid according to the terms of the patient's policy. The detailed coding and data captured in the claim form inform the payer about the diagnosis, procedures, and overall medical necessity, facilitating accurate reimbursement.

Other documents like a receipt of payment, patient registration form, or insurance verification form may support the billing process, but they do not fulfill the primary role of formally initiating the billing claim with the insurance payer. The claim form is the required documentation that ensures compliance with insurance billing regulations and streamlines the payment process.