What is payer?

A payer is an entity or organization that provides payment for healthcare services. Payers may include insurance companies, government programs such as Medicare and Medicaid, or self-insured employers. Payers are responsible for determining which healthcare services are covered under a particular plan, setting prices for those services, and paying providers for their services. They also handle claims processing and reimbursement. Payers play an important role in the healthcare system and have a significant impact on how healthcare is delivered and accessed by patients.