R1 RCM provides comprehensive tech-enabled RCM outsourcing for 750+ clients. Availity provides payer connectivity infrastructure with a free tier. These serve fundamentally different purposes. Availity is foundational infrastructure; R1 RCM is a full managed service.
Key Takeaways
- These are fundamentally different: connectivity tool vs managed services
- R1 RCM provides complete RCM outsourcing; Availity provides connectivity infrastructure
- Availity is used by organizations regardless of whether they use R1 or not
- R1 RCM clients may still use Availity for additional payer connectivity
- The comparison is not meaningful for most purchasing decisions
R1 RCM wins
R1 RCM provides far more comprehensive RCM services, while Availity offers essential free connectivity.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Availity | R1 RCM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Service Scope | Payer connectivity | Full RCM outsourcing | R1 RCM |
| Pricing | Free tier | Managed services pricing | Availity |
| Client Base | Broad healthcare adoption | 750+ managed clients | R1 RCM |
| Delivery Model | Self-service software | Managed services + technology | Tie |
| Operational Impact | Connectivity only | End-to-end operational management | R1 RCM |
| Accessibility | Available to all | Enterprise only | Availity |
Availity
Best for: Any organization needing payer connectivity
Strengths
- +Free tier
- +95% payer connectivity
- +Universal availability
- +Essential infrastructure
Limitations
- -Connectivity only
- -No RCM management
- -Basic features
R1 RCM
Best for: Organizations wanting to fully outsource RCM operations
Strengths
- +Full RCM outsourcing
- +750+ client base
- +Technology + human expertise
- +End-to-end accountability
Limitations
- -Enterprise pricing
- -Loss of operational control
- -Long-term contracts
Detailed Analysis
RCM CapabilityR1 RCM
R1 manages entire revenue cycles. Availity provides connectivity. Not a meaningful comparison on RCM depth.
AccessibilityAvaility
Availity is free and available to everyone. R1 requires significant enterprise commitment.
Operational ImpactR1 RCM
R1 transforms RCM operations entirely. Availity is a utility tool within existing operations.
Bottom Line
These are not alternatives. Use Availity for payer connectivity regardless of other decisions. Evaluate R1 RCM if you want to outsource RCM operations entirely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does R1 use Availity?
R1 has its own technology and payer connections, but may utilize Availity's network for certain payer interactions.
Can Availity replace R1?
No. Availity provides connectivity; R1 provides managed services. They operate at completely different levels.
I'm a small practice. Which do I need?
Start with Availity's free tier. R1 RCM serves enterprise clients and is not accessible to small practices.
Can I use Availity while transitioning to R1?
Yes. Availity can serve as connectivity infrastructure during and after an R1 transition.