Dismissing a Patient from your Practice

When dismissing a patient from your practice, give that patient days to obtain another healthcare provider. If you will not provide your patient with at least two other names of local practitioners, refer them to the local medical society for a referral. The letter should include verbiage allowing the patient to return during the 30 days for continued treatment for an already established problem. It should not go into any details as to the reason for the dismissal, with an exception for dismissal due to violation of a “drug contract”.  Your chart should reflect what is occurring. It is important to put this in writing sent to the patient, preferably by certified mail, return receipt requested. Keep the “green card” with the patient’s signature confirming receipt. If you use EMR, scan the letter and the receipt into your system.

Until next time,

Larry Kobak, Esq.
LKobak@frierlevitt.com
516-222-2407