Fw: patient refuses to pay deductible

[Guest guest]

I would be honest with the patient and let him know that it is against the law to forgive his Medicare co-insurance and deductibles and that, although you would be happy to continue seeing him, that you cannot risk your entire practice for him. That is the truth, even though it is unlikely to affect your status with Medicare to waive his deductible one time. Otherwise, be prepared to pay $162 x 2 (he and his wife, not including the coinsurance) for the next 10 years and possibly any copays from the remainder of the family. I accept the fact that physicians are in general caring and sympathetic people and insurance companies are heartless stock holder pleasing corporations, but it is simply not acceptable for the insurance (pubic or private) collect a premium as salary deduction leaving the physician to get cheated. If he does not like paying the guy who is working to keep him in good health then he should pay for a

supplemental plan. Seems ridiculous, but that is how people think-"The rich doctor is cheating me" and "I dont know what I would have done without insurance". The insurance industry has done a good job solidifying these stereotypes. Have you ever questioned a health insurance bill? The first thing they do is blame the doctor, but dont mention that they have found a loophole to collect money in the form of a premium and never have to pay for expenses.

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To: Sent: Thu, July 7, 2011 10:36:50 AMSubject: patient refuses to pay deductibleWhat to do with patient that refuses to pay deductible and co insurance (medicare). States that Medicare told him that he does not need to pay it (?). And pretends that I should see him, after he told my staff that he would not pay, nor his wife and daughter would come back to the office then 9kind of black mail, I guess). I also guess it did not work out with the new provider and he is back, with the wife that wants to talk to me. from The Barrio, taking a very deep

breath.------------------------------------