Medical Billing Forum

Payments => Patient Billing => : rlopez32 May 04, 2011, 08:49:05 PM

: Credit Cards on file
: rlopez32 May 04, 2011, 08:49:05 PM
Hello Ladies

I have recently started working with a LMFT and he informed me that he has been asking patients to sign and give him their credit card info to keep on file for copays or if an insurance does not cover a service. Is this legal if the patient is willing to sign  over the info?
: Re: Credit Cards on file
: PMRNC May 05, 2011, 09:20:06 AM
Yes, so long as there is sufficient documentation signed by the patient and the payment policy is clearly documented in the office policy. I should add though that patients cannot be made to do this.
: Re: Credit Cards on file
: Michele May 05, 2011, 09:56:30 AM
I would personally not agree to this.  I will pay my provider for each copay at the TOS.  I don't want them having my credit card on file.  I don't always pay my copay with the same method each time.  Sometimes I pay cash, sometimes write a check, use a debit card/credit card, etc.  But yes, like Linda said, it is ok with documentation.  I just couldn't resist stating I would be looking at him with my eye brows up if he told me he wanted to keep my credit card on file!
: Re: Credit Cards on file
: PMRNC May 05, 2011, 06:49:58 PM
I have refused this with my dentist. No way are they getting my credit card. I have clients who have tried this but it bombed miserably, like I said, the patient can most definitely refuse and most just say they don't have a credit card. You also have to setup with your merchant for that too since there is no per transaction signature, many have options where you can setup re-occurring billing but it is a hassle and not worth it, IMO.  You also get patients who will rack up charges and then you charge their card and it's either declined, or the patient disputes the charges and it's such a PIA!
: Re: Credit Cards on file
: AdvancedSpine May 05, 2011, 08:55:17 PM

Also, by law we are not supposed to be storing the security numbers (the 3-digits on the back) so, you have to make sure those do not get filed- if you need them, you will have to call the patient everytime.