Can a provider write off a deductible and coinsurance because the patient states they will not pay?
Compliance Monitor, March 19, 2004
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I don't know why any provider would want to write off a patient's deductible or co-insurance balance, simply because they have stated they will not pay. Deductibles, co-insurance and co-pays should be established and collected up-front for elective services, eliminating the patient's opportunity to deny payment after services have been provided.
The same procedure must be adhered to for all patients in the collection of balances, which typically can include a series of letters or mailers requesting payment, phone calls and ultimately assignment to a collection agency.
This question was answered by Denise Dutwiler, partner, HRM.
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