Which part of the claims process ensures that the patient receives services based on their coverage?

Verification of eligibility is crucial in the claims process because it determines whether a patient’s insurance plan covers the specific services they are seeking. This step involves checking the patient’s insurance policy to confirm their active coverage, what types of services are included, and whether there are any limitations or pre-authorization requirements. By establishing this information beforehand, healthcare providers can ensure that the services rendered align with the patient's available benefits, thereby facilitating appropriate care and minimizing the risk of denied claims later on.

The other options involve different steps in the overall claims process but do not directly address the foundational question of whether services can be provided under the patient’s current coverage. Submission of claims pertains to the process of formally requesting payment from the insurance after services have been rendered. A physician's signature signifies that the services performed were medically necessary and completed but does not confirm coverage beforehand. Filing for a clean claim relates to the accuracy and completeness of the information submitted to insurers but assumes that eligibility has already been verified. Thus, verification of eligibility stands out as the critical step that secures access to services based on insurance coverage.