Which charges do medical practices typically collect at the time of service?

Medical practices often collect copayments, coinsurances, and amounts from self-pay patients at the time of service because these are the portions of costs that the patient is responsible for paying immediately.

Copayments are fixed amounts that patients are required to pay for specific services, typically outlined in their insurance plan. Coinsurance represents the percentage of the medical expenses that the patient has to pay after their deductible has been met. Self-pay patients, who do not have insurance, are expected to pay the full amount for the services rendered at the time of their visit. Collecting these payments at the time of service helps practices secure immediate revenue and manage cash flow effectively.

Insurance claims and payments are usually processed after the service has been rendered, which is why they are not collected at the time of service. While prepaid fees might pertain to certain services (like preventive care), they do not encompass the broader range of typical patient responsibilities handled during the visit. Therefore, the most comprehensive and accurate option is the one that includes copayments, coinsurance, and self-pay patients.