Here are some key things to remember regarding an Indigent program.
Every state differs from the type of assistance offered to the verification process.
The approval process can be simple or more complex depending on the state.
Often clients are not aware that their state offers an Indigent program.
You will experience a client expressing financial hardship and looking for options. It's your job to offer this information to the client.
Read the details of the Indigent program before offering this to the client.
Some states have strict guidelines regarding the time frame when a client can apply to the program.
Depending on the state a client may have to meet certain requirements to qualify for the program.
When quoting an Indigent client be sure to refer back to the SOP to see any adjustments to the fees for certain services.
Not every Indigent program covers every service that our clients receive. Some programs, cover a percentage of the cost, give a discount, or cover certain services in full. Anything not covered by the program is expected to be paid full price by the client.
Certain fees like Labor fees the client may not have to pay as well. This should be listed on the SOP.
When reviewing an Indigent client's account, you will notice that the client has an Indigent fee group. This is changed at the time of the Indigent approval.
Differences in the Account History
Since our Indigent clients are getting assistance with pay for their program the Account History may have additional information. Alot of clients will receive funding that is added directly to their accounts. If this is the case, you may see a "balance" that isn't owed by the client.
Some states may provide the funding at each appointment while others may apply a lump sum of funding every couple of months or even at the end of the program. Be sure to pay attention to this factor so you are not misinforming a client about their balance.
Indigent Programs have different lengths
When a client receives approval, it doesn't necessarily cover the entire program for all clients. Depending on the state's management of indigent programs and the duration the client has the IID, they may need to apply multiple times.
We are not approving any Indigent Programs in the Service Department
We do not actually approval Indigent assistance for clients. Our focus is to inform clients of the process and to assist with quoting. Any questions that we cannot answer the Indigent Specialist is able to assist.
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