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Medical Records for Pt who Owes $$$

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cohenmk:
Yes, Michele is correct. once a WC case is settled, the patient then becomes responsible. Now if he has private insurance, we would bill his Insurance Carrier; however, in this case he then became self pay because he had settled, and has no other private insurance.  But I am just uncertain, legally, if we can hold his medical records until his balance is paid in full.  Anyone knowing this answer...I would greatly appreciate it. Mary Kaye

Michele:
What I am finding out is that the law regarding this varies from state to state.  Here in NY you cannot withhold medical records if a patient owes you money.  But you do not have to give him the originals, you can make copies and charge him for the copies.  You can also take your sweet time getting the copies for him.  One of my providers sends out a letter advising the patient that they will send the copies of the records but that the pt has an outstanding balance.  Also advising the patient the cost for the copying of the records and that the records will not be done until the cost is paid.

If you are in another state you should check the laws for your state.  Try asking another dr in your area.

It seems wrong that they can get away without paying but you still have to follow the laws!   >:(

Michele

Ginger:

--- Quote from: cohenmk on August 27, 2008, 03:32:43 PM ---I have a pt who owes us approx $300 from 2005 (already have sent him to collections). He has a settled WC claim, which is why he owes for his visits. We had dismissed him as a patient, and now he wants his medical records...does anyone know legally if I can hold off on release of these records until he pays his back bill with us?  Thanks for any and all responses.

--- End quote ---


Before I can answer this question, I have a question. Did you or the collection agency you had working this account
get a letter of protection for the balance due?

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