Keep these points in mind when you are extending professional courtesy to your colleagues.
- The most common forms of professional courtesy are waiver of copayment, discounts, and free services.
- A special fraud alert published in 1991 by the U.S. Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, advised that you should not waive copay and deductibles unless the patient suffers true financial hardship.
- You should not provide free medical services in exchange for referrals.
For a detailed discussion of these and other questions regarding the legality of extending professional courtesy, read "Physicians, the law, and professional courtesy."
See also: TMA Board of Councilors opinion
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Last Updated On
August 20, 2021
Originally Published On
March 23, 2010