Florida Chiropractic Laws and Rules (FCLR) Practice Exam

True or False: It is acceptable for a chiropractor to change fees based on insurance provider agreements without informing patients?

1. True

2. False

3. Only if patients agree beforehand

4. It depends on the agreement type

The correct answer is: False

The rationale behind this answer being correct hinges on the ethical and legal obligations that chiropractors have towards their patients. Chiropractors are required to maintain transparency regarding any changes in fees, particularly those that may arise from negotiations with insurance providers. When a chiropractor modifies fees based on agreements with insurance companies without notifying patients, it sets a precedent for a lack of transparency. This could lead to misunderstandings or distrust between the patient and the practitioner. It is crucial for patients to be aware of any changes in financial expectations, as billing practices are integral to the patient-provider relationship. Open communication fosters trust and ensures that patients can make informed decisions regarding their care and financial commitments. Furthermore, many regulatory bodies and guidelines emphasize the importance of clear communication about costs and payments to protect consumer rights. By not informing patients about fee changes, chiropractors may be violating these principles, which could lead to disciplinary action or legal implications. The other options suggest scenarios that either allow or conditionally allow for such actions, which would contradict the fundamental principle of transparency that governs ethical practices in healthcare.