Finding Text
Sliding Scale Assessment Billing DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
ALN #: 93.224
Federal Award Identification #: H80CS6674
Condition: The sliding scale assessment based on a patient's ability to pay was not always applied properly for patient’s billing.
Criteria: 42 CFR Part 51c.303 (f)
Questioned Costs: $-0-
Context: Out of 31 patients tested that had a sliding scale assessment, 3 patients had the correct sliding fee assessment completed; however, for the visit tested, the billing did not reflect the correct sliding fee.
Cause: Human error.
Effect: Non-compliance with federal regulations.
Identification as repeat finding, if applicable: Not applicable.
Recommendation: We recommend LACHC implement additional checks and balances for patient billing to prevent sliding fee billing errors.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Action: Management agrees with the finding. See corrective action plan.