What could be a consequence of not having a fee schedule in place?

Not having a fee schedule in place can lead to inconsistent billing practices, which can create confusion for both the medical office staff and the patients. A fee schedule outlines the costs associated with various services, ensuring that all patients are charged uniformly for the same procedures. Without this structure, the medical office may charge varying amounts for the same service based on individual circumstances or staff discretion, which could lead to discrepancies, disputes, and dissatisfaction among patients. Additionally, inconsistent billing can complicate insurance claims and may result in delayed or reduced reimbursements from payers, further impacting the financial health of the practice. By having a clear fee schedule, a medical office can maintain standardization and accountability in its billing practices.