For many patients and practices alike, money is tight. One in five Americans is uninsured, according to Gallup, and the American Medical Group Association says that most medical groups are operating in the red. The way this dynamic plays out in physician practices varies depending on who you ask.

In California, home to more uninsured residents than any other state, physicians are reportedly working to lessen patients' financial burden by providing more free advice over the phone and interacting with drug reps for the sole purpose of obtaining enough sample medications for patients who can't afford their prescriptions, according to a recent article in USA Today.

And even though practices also are struggling, Ada Marin, a San Diego family physician, told the newspaper that she will lower charges for patients or accept a $10-per-month payment plan rather than see her patients forgo care. When there is a costly procedure, "they won't do it," she said. "That's something we see every day--people going without medication or taking it every other day."

Meanwhile, the financial policy at Fairfield Avenue Family Practice in Johnstown, Pa., states that if patients don't pay their copayment or build up a significant balance due, they will not be seen, American Medical News reports. It's a threat family physician Dr. Walter Kowtoniuk and his partner have yet to carry out, they say, because patients are well aware of the practice's expectations and stick to them.

While experts urge practices to create strong financial policies and ensure staff adhere to them, they also caution that the policy needs to fit with the practice's culture and its patients' needs. Even more importantly, practices need to be mindful of their legal and ethical requirements in creating their financial policies, amednews notes. Experts advise physicians to consult an attorney or other practice management expert to ensure that policies are consistent with applicable regulations and payer contracts.

To learn more:
- read the article from USA Today
- see the article from American Medical News

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