Wiki Ins versus self pay

[stlbill511]

If a patient has insurance, do they have to use their insurance to see a doctor or can they be self pay? I don't know why they would have to use their insurance. I would think if they want to pay the higher self pay fee, that is their choice. Just checking.

Thanks

Caroline

 

[CodingKing]

They don't have to use their insurance. I can think of a few reasons why someone would not want to use insurance. Just make sure you get a waiver signed by the patient. I've seen it happen when patients list as self pay and then changes their mind. I always felt bad calling the office and making them refund a patient and write off charges.

 

[stlbill511]

Thanks for the info. The patient is on drug rehab and is on his parents insurance. He doesn't want his parents to know so he wants to pay by cash.

Thanks again.

Caroline