Patient Agreement, Consent, and Disclosure of Charges

In short

• Before care begins, go through the services agreement with the patient and get it signed or marked.
• Explain out loud and in writing what Medicare, Medicaid, or insurance should pay and what the patient may have to pay. Have the patient initial the payment part.
• If someone signs for the patient, write down who they are and their legal authority, and keep a copy of the paper that gives it.
• If payment or charges change, tell the patient before the next visit. Give the required written notice before a service that may not be covered and before reducing or ending care.
• A patient may withdraw consent at any time. Respect it at once and tell the supervising nurse the same day.