Question

multiple choice question

practices may require self-pay patients to pay their bills ______.

after the health plan denies services
before their appointment
at the time of service
after payments are received by the health plan

Explanation:

Analyze self-pay patient billing policies

Using the Patient Financial Responsibility knowledge point

Self-pay patients do not have health insurance coverage or are receiving services not covered by their plan. Because there is no insurance claim to file, process, or wait for, medical practices establish financial policies to collect payment directly.

Determine the standard timing for collections

Using the Patient Financial Responsibility knowledge point

To minimize outstanding accounts receivable and reduce the administrative costs of billing, medical practices typically collect payments from self-pay patients at the point of service. This means payment is required at the time of service (when the medical care is actually delivered).

Answer:

• after the health plan denies services
• before their appointment
• at the time of service (Correct answer)
• after payments are received by the health plan