The Discount Dilemma
Health care reform has triggered considerable discussion both in print and online about the administrative problems it has created for private practitioners, including decreased cash flow, increased paperwork and business expenses, and an increasing number of high-deductible insurance exchanges with the infamous 90-day “grace periods.” Extending discounts to patients who pay at the time of service or out of pocket may mitigate damage caused by all 3 of these issues; however, caution is necessary, as discounts often can run afoul of federal and state laws.
Practice Points
- Discounts to direct and immediate payers (patients) may run afoul of local and national statutes.
- Routine waiving of co-pays and deductibles can be problematic.
- Consistency of administration, objectivity in policies, and documentation of individual eligibility are essential in private practices.
Final Thoughts
Consistency of administration, objectivity in policies, and documentation of individual eligibility will ensure that the discounts you offer patients are in line with legal and payer regulations. Before you establish a discount policy, be sure to check your state’s applicable laws, and as always, run everything by your attorney.
