CHAA CHAA Patient Financial Counseling and Collections

Question 1

What is the primary purpose of a financial counselor in the patient access department?

Accepted Answer

To help patients understand their financial obligations and explore payment options

Answer

To process insurance claims

Answer

To verify insurance eligibility

Answer

To schedule patient appointments

Question 2

Which federal program provides financial assistance to low-income patients who do not qualify for Medicaid?

Accepted Answer

Charity care / hospital financial assistance programs

Answer

CHIP

Answer

COBRA

Answer

Medicare Advantage

Question 3

A patient's out-of-pocket maximum has been met for the year. What does this mean for subsequent covered services?

Accepted Answer

The insurance company pays 100% of covered costs for the remainder of the benefit year

Answer

The patient owes 100% of costs

Answer

The patient's deductible resets immediately

Answer

The patient must switch to a different plan

Question 4

What is a sliding fee scale used for in patient financial counseling?

Accepted Answer

Adjusting patient charges based on income and family size

Answer

Calculating insurance premiums

Answer

Determining Medicare reimbursement rates

Answer

Setting copay amounts for all patients

Question 5

Which document must a patient sign to authorize the release of billing information to their insurance company?

Accepted Answer

Assignment of Benefits (AOB)

Answer

Advance Directive

Answer

HIPAA Notice of Privacy Practices

Answer

Consent to Treat

Question 6

What is the correct approach when a patient states they cannot afford their estimated balance prior to service?

Accepted Answer

Refer the patient to financial counseling and screen for assistance programs before service

Answer

Deny service immediately

Answer

Require full payment upfront

Answer

Reduce all charges by 50% without documentation