We frequently have patients who come into our ER, undergo tests and procedures and then sneak out before the MD comes in to examine them. Can we bill them for an ER Level Charge, an AMA Charge or just bill them for the charges incurred and can you soppy rationale to support the ability to do this? Our previous ER Director allowed us to charge an AMA Level charge because even though the patient was not seen by the MD, all tests and procedures were based on established ER Protocols for the condition the patient presented with. The MD who "was to see" the patient signed the orders verifying the treatment was provided based on Standards of Medical Practice. Our current ER Director does not seem to have an issue about the thousands of dollars for tests and procedures we are writing off when these patients skip out. Anyone else having this problem and how are you handling it and coding the visit?
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