What should a practice do when it has overcharged a patient for service?

When a practice realizes that it has overcharged a patient for a service, issuing a refund is the appropriate action to maintain ethical standards and ensure compliance with coding and billing regulations. Refunds demonstrate accountability and a commitment to correct billing practices. By promptly addressing the error and providing a refund, the practice helps to maintain patient trust and satisfaction, which are crucial in the healthcare field.

Moreover, from a legal and regulatory standpoint, healthcare providers are expected to comply with billing laws and guidelines, which include correcting any discrepancies in charges. Ignoring the overcharge could lead to further complications, such as disputes with the patient, and could affect the practice's reputation and compliance status. Continuing to bill the patient without rectifying the mistake could be considered fraudulent behavior. Consulting a lawyer may be necessary in certain complex situations, but the immediate and appropriate step is to refund the patient to resolve the overcharge effectively.