In Finding 2023-001, it was noted that the Organization had found 1 of the 15 patients tested were not in the proper slide category based on the income backup received for the patient. We also found 1 of the 15 patients tested did not have backup for income on file for the sliding fee scale but was ...
In Finding 2023-001, it was noted that the Organization had found 1 of the 15 patients tested were not in the proper slide category based on the income backup received for the patient. We also found 1 of the 15 patients tested did not have backup for income on file for the sliding fee scale but was on the scale and had visits that were applied to the scale.
Management recognizes the importance of complying with grant guidelines. In response to Finding 2023-001, Management has taken the necessary steps to ensure full compliance with the provisions of the program, identified specifically as Sliding Fee Discount Program (SFDP) within our organization. These steps include:
a. Implementing a new process for adding the sliding fee discount to patient accounts. Each patient that applies for the slide will be scheduled under “eligibility” with an appointment. After the patient has completed the application, the information will be entered into Athena, and then the plan will be calculated. The paperwork will then be uploaded as an attachment to the Sliding Fee Discount Policy. Each week, a report will be generated in Athena and sent to the Clinical Services Manager. This report will list all patients that had an appointment with eligibility for the prior week. The Clinical Services Manager will then use that report and verify that all information is uploaded and entered correctly.
b. Training on the new process will occur. All support staff responsible for entering and uploading the Sliding Fee Discount will go through thorough training of the new process. Additionally, the Clinical Services Manager will complete peer-to-peer training on the verification process.