Big News: 3 Powerful New Features

VerifyTreatment VerifyTX Logo
Confident revenue start with better data
Technology & Automation

7 Thoughtful AI Competitors for RCM in 2026

May 18, 2026
Written by
Luis Perdomo

Table Of Contents

Got Product Questions? Let's Talk!
From new inquiries to current customer support, we’re standing by to assist you.

Quick Summary

Thoughtful AI has evolved into a more execution-driven RCM platform, which may not suit every team. Some need more control, others want clearer visibility, while some aim to prevent issues before claims are submitted. These alternatives reflect those different approaches across the revenue cycle. The shortlist below highlights the top options depending on what matters most to your team.

Shortlist

ToolBest For
VerifyTreatmentPreventing claim issues before submission (eligibility & authorization accuracy)
WaystarManaging the full revenue cycle in one centralized platform
MD ClarityIdentifying underpayments and recovering lost revenue

Looking for an Alternative to Thoughtful AI for RCM Automation?

In May 2025, Thoughtful AI ceased being just an AI automation platform that deploys agents to handle RCM tasks. It became part of Smarter Technologies, a broader system combining AI agents, clinical intelligence, and large-scale revenue cycle operations.

While the goal is to improve efficiency and reduce administrative burden, it also changes how teams operate day-to-day. Teams now have to shift from managing claims directly to supervising AI-driven workflows, rely more on the vendor when issues arise, and operate with less step-by-step visibility into how claims are processed. This may not suit teams that prefer full transparency across their revenue cycle.

If you’re weighing these changes or trying to determine the right fit for your organization, this guide breaks down 7 Thoughtful AI competitors worth considering.

Why Listen to Us

At VerifyTreatment, we work closely with RCM teams to improve eligibility verification, reduce claim issues, and streamline front-end revenue workflows.

For example, when working with Foundation Recovery Network, our platform helped eliminate admission delays, reduce staffing pressure, and prevent the loss of nearly 1 in 10 patients, resulting in over $10,000 in recovered monthly revenue.

Because we operate directly in this space, our perspective on RCM automation tools comes from hands-on experience. Here’s what one of our customers had to say:

Sam Staples

You don’t have to log into 10 different portals anymore. Verify saves time, saves money, and makes the data usable across departments. We’ve never had visibility like this before.

Bryan Rowell Mendoza, MSW, LCSW Therapist, Lifestance Health

Why Look for Alternatives to Thoughtful AI?

While Thoughtful AI offers a new generation approach to automating revenue cycle workflows, it may not align perfectly with every organization’s needs, especially given its shift toward a more execution-driven and AI-led model.

Here are some of the most common reasons healthcare providers explore alternatives:

Need for Greater Visibility into Claims Activity

With AI handling large portions of the revenue cycle, it’s not always clear how individual claims are processed step by step. Some teams prefer platforms that provide deeper, real-time visibility into claim status, actions taken, and decision points.

More Complex Implementation and Onboarding

Unlike plug-and-play tools, implementing AI-driven RCM systems can require integration with existing infrastructure, workflow alignment, and onboarding time. Organizations looking for faster deployment may explore lighter alternatives.

Heavy Reliance on Vendor-Managed Operations

As the platform shifts toward executing workflows, it also means relying more on the vendor to handle critical revenue cycle functions. Some organizations prefer to keep these processes more in-house or maintain tighter oversight.

Limited Public Reviews and Peer Feedback

Compared to more traditional RCM platforms, there’s relatively limited publicly available user feedback on Thoughtful AI. For buyers who rely on peer reviews or third-party validation, this can make evaluation more difficult.

7 Best Thoughtful AI Competitors in 2026

Not sure which Thoughtful AI competitor is actually worth considering in 2026? With different platforms focusing on everything from automation to visibility and revenue recovery, it can be hard to tell which one fits your workflow.

To make it easier, here’s a quick side-by-side breakdown of the top options and what each one is best known for:

ToolCore FocusApproachBest ForKey Strength
VerifyTreatmentFront-end RCM preventionPreventive (pre-claim)Teams that want control & visibility before submissionReduces denials at the source
WaystarFull RCM infrastructureWorkflow managementOrganizations needing an all-in-one platformEnd-to-end claims & payments system
MD ClarityRevenue recovery & optimizationPost-claim analysisTeams focused on underpayments & payer behaviorIdentifies and recovers lost revenue
InfinxHybrid RCM executionAI + human supportOrganizations open to outsourcing workflowsHandles both routine & complex tasks
AKASAMid-cycle optimizationAI-driven intelligenceHealth systems improving coding & documentationEnhances claim accuracy before submission
AdonisRevenue intelligenceAI + orchestrationTeams needing visibility into denials & A/RSurfaces risk and prioritizes actions
Candid HealthFull automationLow-touch / touchless RCMTeams reducing manual workloadHigh automation with minimal intervention

1. VerifyTreatment


VerifyTreatment does one thing exceptionally well which is helping healthcare organizations avoid costly claim issues, rework, and lost revenue through its preventive approach to revenue cycle management.

Instead of fixing problems after claims are submitted, VerifyTreatment focuses on catching them at the front end. Before a patient is admitted or a claim is created, the platform surfaces critical details like eligibility status, deductibles, carve-outs, and authorization requirements that are often missed during manual verification.

If issues arise at any point, teams have clear visibility into what was verified, what was flagged, and where things may have gone wrong, making it easier to act quickly without chasing down missing information.

So, if you’re a billing team, admissions team, or healthcare provider looking to reduce preventable denials and gain more control over your revenue cycle, VerifyTreatment offers a more proactive alternative.

Key Features

  • Real-time eligibility verification from payer systems
  • Detection of deductibles, carve-outs, exclusions, and out-of-network status
  • Authorization requirement alerts before services begin
  • Re-verification tracking for coverage changes and expiring authorizations
  • Visibility dashboard showing verification activity and risk flags
  • ERA integration for faster payment posting

Pros

  • Prevents denials before claims are submitted
  • Improves accuracy at the admissions stage
  • Gives teams full visibility into verification and risk factors
  • Reduces rework and time spent fixing avoidable errors
  • Built specifically for behavioral health workflows

Cons

  • Not a full end-to-end RCM automation platform
  • Focused on front-end optimization rather than claim execution

Pricing

Custom pricing based on organization size and usage

Best For

Healthcare organizations that want more control, visibility, and accuracy at the front end of the revenue cycle, especially those dealing with eligibility and authorization-related denials.

2. Waystar

Waystar is built to give teams one place to manage the full revenue cycle. It covers everything from verifying patient coverage and submitting claims to tracking payments, handling denials, and analyzing financial performance.

With it, you don’t have to rely on multiple tools or disconnected workflows. Everything sits within the same system, with automation and AI layered in to reduce manual effort and improve efficiency.

Key Features

  • End-to-end claims and payment management
  • Eligibility verification and financial clearance tools
  • Denial prevention and recovery workflows
  • Analytics and reporting for revenue insights
  • AI-powered automation (AltitudeAI™) for task prioritization and error reduction
  • Integration with EHR and practice management systems

Pros

  • Reliable and widely adopted across healthcare organizations
  • Strong all-in-one platform for managing RCM workflows
  • Fast claims submission and electronic payment processing
  • Useful reporting and visibility into revenue performance
  • “One-stop shop” for eligibility, claims, and payment tracking (based on user feedback) 

Cons

  • Customer support can be inconsistent or slow to resolve issues (reported by multiple users
  • Billing and contract-related concerns have been noted in some cases 
  • Limited payer detail or transparency in certain workflows
  • Can require experience to handle claim rejections effectively
  • Occasional delays in payment visibility or posting

Pricing

Custom pricing based on organization size, usage, and integrations

Best For

Healthcare organizations looking for a comprehensive, all-in-one RCM platform with strong infrastructure and broad functionality across the entire revenue cycle.

3. MD Clarity

MD Clarity focuses less on running the revenue cycle and more on making sure providers are actually getting paid what they’re owed.

It brings visibility into underpayments, denials, and payer contracts. This helps teams spot patterns, track what insurers should have paid versus what they actually paid, and take action to recover missing revenue.

A big part of its value sits around payer transparency and contract intelligence, where teams can break down reimbursement at a granular level and use that insight to improve collections, negotiate better terms, or fix recurring issues that quietly impact revenue over time.

Key Features

  • Underpayment and denial detection across claims
  • Centralized payer contract management and analysis
  • AI-driven extraction of contract terms
  • Workflow tracking for appeals and investigations
  • Patient cost estimation and upfront payment tools

Pros

  • Strong visibility into payer behavior and reimbursement gaps
  • Helps recover lost revenue from underpayments and denials
  • Useful for contract analysis and negotiation
  • Supports upfront collections and patient financial transparency

Cons

  • Not designed for full workflow execution
  • Some users report limitations in payer coverage data 
  • Editing and flexibility issues in certain workflows (e.g., estimates) 
  • Can take time to fully learn and configure

Pricing

Custom pricing (not publicly listed)

Best For

Organizations focused on revenue recovery, payer accountability, and contract optimization, rather than day-to-day workflow automation.

4. Infinx

Infinx takes a hybrid approach to RCM. Similar to Thoughtful AI in its use of AI agents, it combines automation with human expertise to handle revenue workflows end to end.

AI handles routine, high-volume tasks like eligibility checks, claim status, and payment posting, while humans take on more complex work like denial resolution, payer follow-ups, and exception handling.

Key Features

  • AI agents for decision-making and workflow execution
  • Automation for high-volume tasks (eligibility, claim status, payment posting)
  • Human RCM experts for exception handling and workflow continuity
  • End-to-end RCM coverage (patient access, coding, billing, A/R)
  • EHR, payer, and clearinghouse integrations
  • Analytics and workflow orchestration across the revenue cycle

Pros

  • Combines AI automation with human expertise (handles edge cases better)
  • Covers the full revenue cycle, not just one stage
  • Reduces manual workload while maintaining workflow continuity
  • Flexible service model (can scale across different functions)
  • Strong integration with existing systems

Cons

  • Heavier reliance on outsourced support compared to pure software tools
  • Less direct control for teams that prefer to manage workflows internally
  • Implementation and scope can vary depending on engagement

Pricing

Custom pricing based on scope, volume, and service model. Annual engagements typically start around $5,000/month, with pricing structured around capacity, outcomes, or managed services 

Best For

Healthcare organizations looking for a hybrid RCM model that combines automation with expert support to handle routine workflows and complex edge cases without building large in-house teams.

5. AKASA

​​

AKASA centers its approach on using GenAI trained on clinical and financial data to surface gaps, improve accuracy, and guide decisions before claims are finalized.

It most often shows up in mid-cycle workflows, where teams are reviewing documentation and coding before submission. For example, when documentation is incomplete or a code is underreported, AKASA surfaces the gap early and guides teams toward a more accurate, complete claim.

Key Features

  • GenAI-powered coding and CDI optimization
  • Pre-bill optimization to catch errors before submission
  • AI assistant for revenue cycle research and decision support
  • Automated authorization and claim status tracking
  • Clinical + financial data integration for deeper insights

Pros

  • Strong focus on improving accuracy before claims go out
  • Advanced use of generative AI tailored for healthcare workflows
  • Helps uncover missed revenue opportunities
  • Reduces manual effort in coding and documentation

Cons

  • Less focused on full end-to-end workflow execution
  • Limited visibility into real-world user feedback (fewer public reviews)
  • May require integration into existing systems and processes

Pricing

Custom pricing based on organization size and solution scope

Best For

Health systems looking to improve coding accuracy, documentation quality, and pre-bill optimization using AI, rather than fully outsourcing or replacing their revenue cycle workflows.

6. Adonis

Adonis focuses on helping teams understand where revenue is leaking and take action before it compounds. It analyzes claims, denials, A/R, and payer behavior to surface risk early. It then coordinates what needs to happen next, whether that’s prioritizing follow-ups, recommending actions, or triggering automated workflows to resolve issues.

Key Features

  • AI-driven analysis of claims, denials, and payer behavior
  • Early detection of revenue risks across A/R and workflows
  • AI agents to automate resolution of high-friction tasks
  • Workflow orchestration across billing systems and payer portals
  • Integration with EHR, billing platforms, and payer systems

Pros

  • Strong visibility into revenue risks and root causes
  • Helps teams prioritize high-impact actions
  • Reduces manual follow-ups and reactive work
  • Coordinates workflows instead of just automating tasks

Cons

  • Not a full end-to-end RCM execution platform
  • Limited public user reviews available
  • May require existing workflows/tools to integrate with

Pricing

Custom pricing based on organization size and scope

Best For

Organizations that want better visibility into denials, A/R, and payer behavior, and a system that helps prioritize and coordinate actions to protect revenue.

7. Candid Health

Candid Health is built to reduce how often teams need to step in, using automation to detect issues, correct them, and keep claims moving without the usual back-and-forth. Instead of relying heavily on manual review or follow-ups, it aims to get claims right the first time and keep workflows running with fewer interruptions.

Key Features

  • High automation with “touchless” claim processing
  • AI-driven error detection and correction before submission
  • Real-time reporting and performance visibility
  • API-first integrations with existing tech stacks
  • Optional human support when needed

Pros

  • Strong focus on reducing manual workload
  • High claim accuracy and reduced denials
  • Modern, API-driven infrastructure
  • Real-time visibility into RCM performance

Cons

  • Less hands-on control for teams that prefer manual oversight
  • Limited public user reviews available
  • May require workflow adjustments to fully adopt automation

Pricing

Custom pricing based on organization size and scope.

Best For

Organizations looking to minimize manual work and move toward a highly automated, low-touch revenue cycle.

Choosing the Right Thoughtful AI Competitor for Your RCM

Each alternative approaches RCM differently. Some automate execution, others optimize workflows, while a few focus on visibility and revenue recovery. The right fit depends on how much control you want, how your team operates, and where your biggest gaps are.

For many organizations, those gaps start before claims are even submitted. Eligibility errors, missed authorizations, and incomplete verification often lead to denials that are harder to fix later.

That’s where a preventive approach stands out. Instead of managing issues downstream, VerifyTreatment helps teams catch them early (before they impact claims, cash flow, or staff time).

If you’re aiming for more control and fewer avoidable denials, it’s worth exploring how VerifyTreatment fits into your workflow here.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Thoughtful AI do?

Thoughtful AI uses AI agents to automate revenue cycle workflows such as eligibility verification, claims submission, and denial follow-ups. Instead of just assisting teams, it executes tasks across the revenue cycle with minimal manual intervention.

What should I look for in a Thoughtful AI competitor?

It depends on your priorities. Some teams look for full automation, while others prioritize visibility, flexibility, or ease of use. Key factors to consider include workflow control, integration capabilities, level of automation, and how well the solution fits into your existing processes.

Is Thoughtful AI a SaaS platform or a service?

Thoughtful AI operates as an AI-driven automation platform, but with its integration into Smarter Technologies, it now sits within a broader system that combines software, AI agents, and managed RCM operations.

What is the best alternative to Thoughtful AI?

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. The best alternative depends on your needs—whether that’s full automation, better visibility, or preventing claim issues upfront. For teams focused on reducing denials before claims are submitted, VerifyTreatment offers a more preventive approach.

Disclaimer: All trademarks, logos, and brand names are the property of their respective owners. The use of any third-party trademarks, logos, or brand names in this article is for informational and comparative purposes only, and constitutes nominative fair use. This article was published by VerifyTreatment, and while we strive for objective comparisons, VerifyTreatment is included as an option within this list.

Related post:
VerifyTreatment simplifies insurance verification for behavioral health and healthcare providers nationwide.
Samantha Gobert
Senior Account Executive

Samantha is a dynamic marketing professional dedicated to making a difference in the behavioral health industry through her work at VerifyTreatment. With a strong background in digital marketing and brand advocacy, she helps elevate the platform’s presence by fostering authentic connections with treatment centers and healthcare providers. Her expertise in content creation and community engagement ensures that VerifyTreatment’s value is communicated effectively, helping centers streamline operations and improve patient care. Samantha’s focus on building trust and driving awareness positions VerifyTreatment as a key resource in the healthcare landscape.

Nicole Staples
Customer Success Representative

Nicole is a versatile healthcare professional with a Bachelor’s degree in Health Administration and a solid background in managing healthcare systems and operations. Her experience spans healthcare management, compliance, and regulations, making her adept at navigating complex healthcare environments. In addition to her administrative expertise, Nicole holds certifications in Functional Nutrition and Personal Training, giving her a well-rounded perspective on health and wellness. She is committed to using her skills to improve healthcare settings and ensure effective, patient-centered care.

Tara Perdomo
Brand Engagement Manager

Tara is a dedicated leader who leverages her Master's degree in Information Technology (Florida Tech) and deep company knowledge (since 2018) to drive our community awareness. She is the central figure for managing social engagement and ensuring the community is immediately and effectively informed of all new product launches and company updates.

JoAnn Kelly
Business Development Consultant

JoAnn has a strong background in the mental health and substance abuse industry, with expertise in billing, coding, facility credentialing, and contracting. She is passionate about team education and public speaking, always striving to make a positive impact. With a solid foundation in accounting, JoAnn also holds an Associate of Arts in Biblical Studies from Liberty University, blending her professional skills with her personal values.

Melanie Hernadez
Customer Success Supervisor

For 11+ years, Melanie has been dedicated to helping clients access quality mental health care, with a special focus on grief, loss, and substance abuse. With expertise in healthcare, community outreach, patient advocacy, and leadership development, Melanie is passionate about making a positive impact in the lives of others.

Jordan Sheffield
Senior Account Executive

Jordan is a dedicated advocate for behavioral health and is passionate about improving sales strategies and business processes. With a focus on helping businesses, particularly in healthcare, Jordan believes that streamlining operations is a way to positively impact more people indirectly. A strong leader, both personally and professionally, Jordan is committed to making a difference in the world by doing good business and serving a higher purpose.