Finding Text
Criteria: Syracuse Community Health Center, Inc. (the Center) is required to have a sliding fee scale policy and to perform calculations in accordance with the established policy.
Condition: During our audit, we tested a sample of 40 sliding fee scale calculations. Three patients in our sample were charged the incorrect amount based on the sliding fee determination. The sliding fee scale calculation used the incorrect slide discount percentage.
Context: We recalculated the sliding fee using the supporting income documentation maintained by the Center and the Center’s policy. The sample was not a statistically valid sample.
Cause: The condition can be attributed to human error and turnover in the department.
Effect: Inconsistent application of sliding fee scale calculations to patient charges.
Recommendation: The sliding fee scale option is available as a result of grant funding. The Center should provide training to those making eligibility calculations.