If a patient fails to make payment on an overdue account, the physician has the right to formally withdraw from providing care to the patient; however, notice must be given to the patient to allow the patient to seek care from another provider. True or False
The correct answer and explanation is:
True.
A physician has the right to withdraw from providing care to a patient if the patient fails to pay for services rendered, but they must do so in a legally appropriate manner. This process is known as “patient termination” or “discontinuation of care.” The physician must provide the patient with adequate notice of the intention to terminate the relationship. This notice should be written and given within a reasonable time frame, typically 30 days.
The purpose of the notice is to allow the patient enough time to find another healthcare provider. The notice must inform the patient of their right to seek care elsewhere and also offer the opportunity for the patient to arrange for transfer of medical records to a new provider. Additionally, if the patient has any ongoing medical needs, such as prescriptions or treatments, the physician must give advice on how to continue treatment during this transition.
This process is designed to protect both the physician and the patient. For the physician, it ensures that they comply with ethical and legal obligations. In contrast, for the patient, it ensures continuity of care, which is particularly important if the patient requires immediate attention for an ongoing health condition.
However, there are certain exceptions to this rule. For instance, a physician cannot abandon a patient in an emergency or when it would cause harm to the patient. Therefore, before withdrawing from care, the physician must consider the urgency of the patient’s medical needs and the impact of the decision on the patient’s health.
In conclusion, while physicians can withdraw from providing care due to unpaid bills, they must follow the proper procedure to ensure that the patient’s rights and access to healthcare are respected.