Batch number

Assigned numerals to each group of insurance claims processed for different patients from one office and submitted in one computer transmission. The batch number appears on the document (report) when payments are made for the batch.

Batch processing

Method used by a provider to group (collect) computerized transactions over a period of time and transmit them in a single operation either at night or in a time-delayed manner (e.g., daily insurance claims).

Bathing

Ability of an individual to wash oneself on a routine basis in the bathtub, shower, or by sponge bath. Also see activities of daily living (ADLs) .

Beaming

Electronic, wireless method of transferring files from one computer to another computer or personal digital assistant device. The devices are pointed toward each other and selected files are transferred.

Bed count

Total number of beds maintained by a hospital or inpatient health facility for a designated patient population. Also called bed capacity or bed size .