Dialogue Volume 13 Issue 4 2017 | Page 18

POLICY MATTERS 5 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT THE NEW POLICY: 1 E  xpands and clarifies expectations in regard to the provision and billing of uninsured services 2  S  tates that fees charged for uninsured services be reasonable. Requires that physicians consider the patient’s ability to pay fees. 3 A  rticulates expectations of physicians who intend to charge patients for missed or cancelled appointments without required notice. patients are particularly reliant on the honesty and integrity of their physicians to ensure their needs and interests are being put first, and that they have clear information about their clinical options and any corresponding fees.” “Physicians must recognize that patients in these situations are often vulnerable and that the power imbalance in the physician-patient relationship may compound that vulnerabili- ty,” said Dr. David Rouselle, College President. In the instance of a patient who needs cataract surgery, for example, the physician must have a clear and detailed discussion with the patient about the testing that is available, the costs