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

The 837P/CMS-1500 claim form is essential when billing a third-party payer for an office visit because it is the standard format used to submit claims for payment for medical services rendered. This form contains critical information related to the patient, the services provided, diagnosis codes, and billing details. Ensuring that all relevant information is accurately reported on this form is crucial for the timely processing and reimbursement of the claim by insurers.

The encounter form, while useful for gathering information during the office visit, does not serve as a billing document itself. A patient information sheet typically collects personal and demographic details but is not used for billing purposes. Similarly, a superbill, although it may summarize services provided, is more for internal use and requires conversion to the claim format, which is accomplished using the CMS-1500 form for third-party billing. The 837P/CMS-1500 claim form is thus the correct document needed to initiate the billing process with a patient's insurance provider.