Is It Standard Practice for Medical Offices to Require a Credit Card on File? A Recent Experience Raises Questions
As a patient scheduling an appointment with my gastroenterologist, I was surprised to encounter a new policy. The clinic requested a pre-registration step that included providing a credit card with at least $400 available, intended to cover any potential out-of-pocket expenses not covered by insurance.
Initially, I was taken aback by this requirement. While some healthcare providers may request a credit card for convenience or as a security measure, a substantial pre-authorization amount raises questions about industry norms and patient privacy.
Feeling uncomfortable with the policy, I decided to cancel my appointment. This experience led me to wonder: Is this practice becoming more common in healthcare settings as we approach mid-2025?
Patients should always be aware of the policies at their healthcare providers and advocate for clarity and transparency. If you encounter similar requests, consider discussing the reasoning behind such policies with your provider, and ensure you’re comfortable before proceeding.
Stay informed and protect your financial privacy—know your rights as a patient and stay vigilant about evolving healthcare billing practices.
