Compliance: Are You Considering 'Firing' A Patient? Proceed Carefully to Avoid Getting Burned

Why This Topic Matters

Patient discharge decisions can create legal exposure if handled improperly. The article helps practices understand the broad compliance factors that affect whether and how a patient relationship may be ended.

Article Sections

1. At issue

   Introduces the circumstances that may lead a practice to consider ending a patient relationship and the compliance concerns that can arise.

2. 1) Give adequate notice.

   Covers general notice-related considerations before a relationship is ended and the importance of allowing time for response and transition.

3. 2) Help your patients find other resources.

   Discusses the need to support patients in locating alternate care resources when a relationship is ending.

4. 3) Pay attention to state laws.

   Addresses state-specific requirements that may apply to patient termination and references examples from different jurisdictions.

5. 4) Pay attention to circumstances.

   Notes that patient location, access to providers, and coverage limitations can affect the transition process.

6. 5) Check your participation agreement.

   Explains that contractual terms with health plans may affect how a participating provider handles patient termination.

7. Important:

   Highlights an additional caution involving Medicare patients and discriminatory discharge concerns.