CHAA Patient Financial Counseling and Collections Flashcards
6 cards from real CHAA practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 CHAA Patient Financial Counseling and Collections flashcards as text
What is a payment plan agreement in the context of patient collections?
Answer: A contract where the patient agrees to pay their balance in installments over time
A payment plan allows patients to pay their balance in scheduled installments rather than in a single lump sum, making large bills more manageable.
When collecting a copayment at time of service, which best practice should patient access staff follow?
Answer: Collect the copay at check-in and provide a receipt
Collecting copayments at check-in is standard best practice and reduces the cost of back-end billing; a receipt documents the transaction for both parties.
What is 'bad debt' in healthcare revenue cycle management?
Answer: Patient balances that were billed but deemed uncollectible after collection efforts
Bad debt refers to accounts where the patient had a financial obligation but did not pay despite collection efforts, distinguishing it from charity care write-offs.
A patient presents without insurance and asks about self-pay discounts. What should the patient access representative do?
Answer: Refer the patient to financial counseling to discuss the self-pay discount policy and payment options
Most hospitals have self-pay discount policies; the financial counselor can explain these options and screen for additional assistance programs.
Which federal law requires hospitals to provide emergency care regardless of ability to pay?
Answer: EMTALA (Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act)
EMTALA mandates that hospitals with emergency departments provide a medical screening exam and stabilizing treatment to anyone who presents, regardless of their insurance status or ability to pay.
What is the purpose of pre-service financial clearance?
Answer: To identify and resolve financial and insurance issues before the patient receives care
Pre-service financial clearance resolves eligibility, authorization, and estimated patient liability issues before service, reducing denials and point-of-service surprises.