Q: Can a provider write off a deductible and coinsurance because a patient states he or she will not pay?
Patient Financial Services Weekly Advisor, May 7, 2004
A: I don't know why any provider would want to write off a patient's deductible or coinsurance balance simply because they have stated they will not pay. Deductibles, coinsurance, and copays should be established and collected up-front for elective services, eliminating the patient's opportunity to deny payment after services have been provided.
Adhere to the same procedure 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 at HRM, Inc., Dallas.
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