We are currently working on charging for outpatient visits which we
have done without charge for 5 years.  I have mixed feelings.  I
fully understand the need for our services to move toward being
"self-supporting",  I understand that we must at least attempt to
get insurance to cover our charges as much as they cover PT, OT,
etc.  A couple of us, however, have concerns about patients who may
TRULY have difficulty paying.

Let's try to put ourselves in the mind of a mom who isn't even sure
she can pay the rent this month - Yes, formula does cost around $100
or more a month, but that does get paid gradually without being
billed every month.  The other costs of artificial feding which we
know so well may or may not be measurable for this particular
infant.  When you are budgeting for every penny and have to decide
in which order to pay your bills so services don't get cut off, it's
hard to think of a cost that MIGHT happen.  It's all you can do to
think of the definite ones.  Then, let's face it, there are some
moms whose husbands control the pursestrings and can't see the value
of spending money on a consult, even if they aren't having to pinch
pennies.  I agree with the recent poster who pointed out that these
babies don't deserve any less just because finances aren't
available.  It's a real dilemma.  We certainly need to have our
services recognized as valid and valuable, but we do care about
ALL the moms and babies.

Our supervisor, who is doing most of the arranging for charges,
billing insurance etc. doesn't see this is a problem.  Therefore, we
have decided to keep a record of how many moms balk at coming in for
a consult when they hear about the charge.  Either we will have some
hard data to present or we will be proven wrong and find that our
clients will come no matter what.  If we are right, and some moms
may not come because of the cost, I'm hoping we can get some kind of
"scholarship" arrangement set up.

Winnie

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