Forum - Questions & Answers

Dec 8th, 2011 - vsmichael 20 

Consultation charge

I work for an Internal Medicine physician. We recently had a patient make an appointment to see the doctor. When she got here, she refused to sign any paperwork stating, "I am just meeting with the doctor to see if I like her and if she can manage my health issues. If I like her, I will make an appointment and sign all paperwork." My question is, can this appointment be charged? We did get copies of her insurance card. When the patient made the initial appoinment over the phone, she never mentioned her intent regarding this appointment. I know I cannot use the Consultation codes. Please Advise. Thanks!

Dec 8th, 2011 - youngblood 278 

re: Consultation charge

Part of the new patient paperwork should include (her) authorization to bill her insurance and receive payment directly from the latter (the basis of the "Signature on File" requirement). If she did not sign it, you cannot bill (the insurance); you also have no legal financial commitment that the patient agrees to pay you. A "meet the doctor" visit, once recognized, should be immediately limited (by the physician) to a few minutes to discuss background, experience and interests. No medical assessment should be done, and no medical advice given until she legally establishes care, and a record is inititated.

Dec 9th, 2011 -

re: Consultation charge

And to add, talk to the person who made the appointment; did they ask for a meet the doctor appointment? Most patients specifically ask for that. It is much more common in peds than adult medicine. And ask your docs if they want to accept that type of appt and give away time. It can be done with a new doc in town to help build a practice but if you are a busy practice, they are money losers.

Dec 12th, 2011 - vsmichael 20 

re: Consultation charge

Thank you for the feedback! I got my question answered!



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