What is the written notification called that allows participating providers to bill patients for services excluded from the Medicare program?

The term for the written notification that allows participating providers to bill patients for services not covered by the Medicare program is known as a Voluntary Advance Beneficiary Notice of Noncoverage (ABN). This notice is used when providers expect that Medicare may deny payment for a certain service or item, allowing patients to be informed in advance about their financial responsibility.

The Voluntary ABN gives patients the opportunity to decide whether to proceed with the service, knowing they might be responsible for the costs. It is essential in ensuring that patients are aware of potential out-of-pocket expenses, which aligns with the principles of transparency and patient autonomy in healthcare billing practices.

Other types of notices have different regulatory implications and may not apply to situations where providers need to inform patients about potential financial liability for specific services. The distinction of the Voluntary ABN is crucial for both providers and patients, as it facilitates clearer communication and helps avoid confusion regarding billing and payment responsibilities.