The Road Ahead and Challenges of Revenue Cycle Management in Saudi Governmental Hospitals

Healthcare providers use revenue cycle management (RCM) to track patient billing and revenue. The revenue cycle collects data from various systems and compiles it into a single RCM system connected to payers. Effective system integration improves revenue and financial stability. The aim is to assess RCM feasibility in Saudi Arabia's governmental hospitals, examine financial management, and recommend practical implementation. In this study, healthcare leaders were interviewed face-to-face and via audio recording to collect qualitative data in response to semi-structured questions. Key informants from seven main hospitals were interviewed. Respondents understood RCM and identified internal and external challenges in hospital financial management. Government hospitals face accountability obstacles. Two of the seven surveyed hospitals operate business clinics using a fee-for-service model. The billing system is not integrated with the information system. The RCM system faces challenges such as unclear vision, lack of accountability, staff resistance, process redesign, and importance of project management. Despite these challenges, respondents still value RCM and recognize its importance in improving hospital revenue management. Effective implementation of RCM requires significant transformational processes, including vision, governance, accountability, proper training, and effective monitoring and evaluation processes. Communication should also be emphasized, and the patient's perspective must be brought into focus. Involving all stakeholders can create direct and holistic patient benefits; therefore, bringing them on board is crucial. New approaches are required to enhance healthcare in Saudi Arabia, addressing gaps in revenue optimization and RCM. Future research should evaluate the move from government-funded to self-operated hospitals, providing a better understanding of the challenges and opportunities.