Florida Chiropractic Laws and Rules (FCLR) Practice Exam

When might a chiropractic physician's refusal to account for patient money be deemed unacceptable?

1. When the amount demanded is deemed excessive or fraudulent

2. When the consultation fees are unpaid

3. When patient consent is not present

4. When the patient disagrees with the quality of care

The correct answer is: When the amount demanded is deemed excessive or fraudulent

A chiropractic physician's refusal to account for patient money can be deemed unacceptable when the amount demanded is considered excessive or fraudulent because professional ethics and legal standards require practitioners to maintain transparency and honesty in financial dealings with patients. Acceptable billing practices include ensuring that the charges reflect reasonable and customary fees for the services provided. If a patient feels that they are being charged disproportionately or for services that were not provided or were misrepresented, this refusal can lead to significant ethical and legal implications. This principle ensures that patients are treated fairly and are able to trust their providers, which is essential in establishing a solid patient-physician relationship. As such, a chiropractor must not only justify their billing practices but also ensure their charges align with accepted standards in the field.