Office FAQ: Billing for No Shows
May a physician bill a patient for a “no show” appointment?
Yes. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) policy is to allow physicians and suppliers to charge for missed appointments, as long as the missed appointment policy applies equally to all patients (Medicare and non-Medicare). In that case, Medicare law and regulations do not preclude the physician or supplier from charging the Medicare patient directly. The charge would not be for a “service,” but rather a charge for a missed business opportunity. If your office adopts this policy, it should be displayed throughout the office and waiting area.
Last Updated: 1/11/2008