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Wiki surcharges??

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LouiseR1

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New Braunfels, TX
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I read an article that stated many physician practices are charging "surcharges" of $5-$10 when the patient cannot pay copay "forgot wallet, etc". The surcharge is to cover admin costs for statements, employee time, etc. So if copay is $40, they tack on an additional amount ($5-$10) this makes sense and sounds good, but makes me wonder -- Is anyone doing this? and more importantly is it legal?
any input is appreciated :)

thanks,
Louise CPC
 
Louise,

This is absolutely legal and it is being done in many practices. I know of a practice that charges $20 for non payment on the date of service to cover the cost of the invoicing. I recommended to them to charge that each month until the balance is paid.

However, you should utilize your financial statement and have the patient sign they have read it.
 
Thank you Michael, I wasn't entirely sure if it violated any contracts.
On another note would the same rule apply to Medicare patients?

thanks,
Louise CPC
 
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