Certified Revenue Cycle Representative (CRCR) Practice Exam

Patients should be informed that costs presented in a price estimate may do what?

1. Vary from estimates, depending on the actual services performed

2. Be guaranteed if the patient satisfies all patient financial responsibilities at the time of registration

3. Be lower as price estimates use the highest market price

4. Only determine the percentage of the total that the patient is responsible for and not the actual cost

The correct answer is: Vary from estimates, depending on the actual services performed

The statement that costs presented in a price estimate may vary from estimates, depending on the actual services performed, is correct because medical billing is often complex and influenced by various factors. The estimated costs provided to patients generally serve as a preliminary guide based on the services that are expected to be delivered. However, the final amount billed can fluctuate due to several reasons such as changes in the treatment plan, additional procedures that may be necessary, or variations in the specific services provided during the visit. Therefore, patients need to understand that while estimates are helpful for planning, the final costs can differ from what was initially quoted. The other options do not accurately portray the nature of price estimates. For instance, the notion that costs would be guaranteed if financial responsibilities are met overlooks the inherent variability in medical services. Additionally, the idea that price estimates always use the highest market price is misleading, as estimates are typically based on a variety of factors, including negotiated rates. Lastly, while it is true that estimates may inform patients of their potential out-of-pocket costs, they do not strictly limit the information to just the percentage of total expenses without reflecting the context of the total bill.