Record Keeping and Fees (6.01-6.07) Flashcards
Why do psychologists need to keep records?
Facilitate future provision of services
Allow for replication of research results
Meet institutional requirements
Ensure accuracy of billing
Comply with the law
How should psychologists proceed in terms of maintaining and disposing of client records?
To the extent they have control, psychologists create, maintain, and destroy records in a manner that protects confidentiality.
When client information is entered into databases, appropriate measures should be taken to protect confidentiality, including coding of personal identifiers
What should psychologists ensure in advance in terms of records?
Psychologists should plan in advance to protect the confidentiality of records and data in case of their death or incapacity.
Can psychologists withhold records during an emergency if a client owes them money?
Psychologists may not withhold records that are necessary for emergency treatment because a client owes them money.
Can psychologists withhold records in a non-emergency situation?
It is technically ethical but actually illegal to withhold records for nonpayment in a non-emergency situation.
Thus, psychologists should not withhold records for non-payment in any situation, emergency or otherwise (HIPPA supersedes the ethics code here)
When should fees be discussed?
Fees and billing arrangements must be agreed upon “as early as is feasible in a professional or scientific relationship.”
Can a psychologist share a clients information to a collections agency without notifying them?
Psychologists must inform clients before using a collection agency, and they must provide clients with the opportunity to make prompt payments.
What information can a psychologist share if they are send a client’s information to a collections agency?
Only the most limited information should be disclosed, typically just the client’s name and the amount of money owed.
Do psychologists need to inform a client they may use a collections agency at the onset of treatment?
Psychologists do not have to inform clients at the onset of treatment that they may use a collection agency at some later time.
Can psychologists barter with clients?
Yes, bartering is permissible as long as it is not clinically contraindicated and not exploitative (tends to be common in rural communities)
Can a psychologist provide different information about a client’s diagnosis to a payor/insurance company in order to benefit their client?
No, diagnoses, services provided, and similar information must all be accurately stated.
Can a psychologist provide different information about fees to a payor/insurance company in order to benefit their client?
Psychologists must provide accurate information to payors and to sources of research funding.
Can you waive a client’s copay if they cannot afford services?
You cannot waive the copay for your client, unless insurance agrees upon it.
Can psychologists split fees with other professionals?
yes, any payments or fee-splitting between psychologists and other professionals must be based on services provided (clinical, consultative, administrative or other).
Can a psychologist pay another professional for referrals?
Psychologists may never pay another professional for a referral.
