Join us for Advantum Health’s Revenue Cycle Insiders series, a monthly installment where we uncover the invaluable experiences and perspectives of our company’s revenue cycle leaders and team members. This month, meet Shelby Hamel, RCM Account Manager.
Q: When did you start working in revenue cycle? Describe your journey in revenue cycle management.
A:
My revenue cycle journey began at 18 when I started working for a local chiropractor. In this role, I received foundational training in patient scheduling, claims billing, revenue cycle processes, and financial consulting. After seven valuable years, I transitioned to a mental and behavioral health non-profit, where I assisted in their billing department. This experience broadened my understanding of different billing structures and set the stage for my next role in a medical billing company.
At the billing company, I managed accounts for multiple providers across various specialties. Each account had unique billing practices and payer requirements, so I dedicated myself to understanding the intricacies of each. I researched coding guidelines, mastering ICD-9 and ICD-10 standards, payer credentialing, and revalidation requirements. Through these experiences, I built strong relationships with providers and gained their trust, allowing me to support them by improving compliance, optimizing workflows, and increasing reimbursements. Today, I serve as an RCM Account Manager for multiple practices and am working toward a certified coder certificate to enhance the value I bring to my clients.
Q: What attracted you to the healthcare industry, and specifically to revenue cycle management?
A:
My attraction to healthcare and, specifically, revenue cycle management stems from a blend of personal and professional motivations. Helping others has always been fulfilling for me, and revenue cycle management offers a unique way to make a meaningful impact. Professionally, the healthcare industry’s need for sustainable financial practices, especially with the rise of technology, presented exciting opportunities to develop expertise in an area essential to operational success and patient care.
Q: What upcoming developments in your field excite you?
A:
In the next 6–12 months, automation in RCM processes through AI-driven analytics tools is on the rise. These advancements will enhance billing accuracy and streamline workflows by reducing manual tasks, freeing up time for strategic improvements. I’m eager to see how these technologies will reshape our industry, making processes more efficient and effective while allowing us to focus more on high-value activities.
Q: What are some of the biggest challenges your industry faces in the short and long term?
A:
In the short term, high-deductible health plans are increasingly common, meaning patients are responsible for a larger share of their medical bills. This trend makes it challenging to collect payments upfront and manage accounts receivable effectively. Over the long term, healthcare organizations will need to continually invest in technology to maintain efficiency. This includes adopting advanced analytics to track key performance metrics and refine operations. Strategic adaptation will be crucial to sustaining growth as the healthcare landscape evolves.
Q: If you could go back in time, what advice would you give yourself 10 years ago?
A:
I would tell myself to complete billing and coding certifications sooner! These credentials provide a solid foundation and would have enhanced my career progression early on. That said, it’s never too late to invest in professional development, and I’m grateful for the journey and the experiences I’ve had along the way.
Q: What’s the best (or worst) leadership advice you’ve received?
A:
The best leadership advice I received was to “pick your battles.” This wisdom has helped me identify which issues require immediate attention and which can wait or even be set aside. By focusing on what matters, I’ve been able to conserve energy for key decisions, fostering a more balanced and effective work environment.
Q: Is there any other industry or operational insight you’d like to share?
A:
Effective revenue cycle management is crucial for timely payments and regulatory compliance. Poor management in this area can lead to financial losses, affecting both providers and healthcare institutions. Finding a reputable RCM partner, like Advantum Health, with knowledgeable staff, can make a significant difference—from implementation to achieving sustainable growth. Providers must take the time to choose a team that can support their financial health and compliance needs every step of the way.