“Grassi & Co. has always been a pleasure to work with. We run most major business decisions by them and they have served as an excellent sounding board for us through the years. Our team is always going above and beyond, giving us sound, strategic business advice that has helped us save money on our taxes and secure favorable financing when needed.”

John Buck, Owner, Hinck Electrical Contractors, Inc.

Grassi Healthcare Consulting Tip: Disputed Credit Card Charges

Grassi Healthcare Consulting Tip: Disputed Credit Card Charges

When a patient pays their co-pay or other payment via credit card, they can call the credit card company and complain about the purchase. If a procedure such as Botox was administered, the patient can dispute the charge and say they were unhappy with the procedure. The credit card company will then send your practice a letter asking for an explanation. You must tell the credit card company to get written consent from the patient to release any medical information; otherwise you could be in violation of HIPAA policy.

Your practice wants to get compensated for any services rendered, but you cannot violate a federal law to do so. Some attorneys feel if you refund a patient, it is an admission of guilt. In any event, physicians need to review all of the paperwork to see why the patient is asking for a refund and determine whether it is an issue you should pursue.

For more information, please feel free to contact John Pellitteri, Partner & Healthcare Niche Practice Leader, at (516) 336-2470 or via e-mail at jpellitteri@grassicpas.com.