Loss fees for doctors: Legal basis and consequences for patients - a financial expert's view

Loss fees for doctors: Legal basis and consequences for patients - a financial expert's view

According to a report by www.wp.de, canceling doctor's appointments or not showing up without justification has financial consequences. Courts have not yet ruled consistently on whether medical practices can charge cancellation fees for missed or canceled appointments, which does not lead to a generally valid legal basis.

The main reason for default fees is the patient's obligation to pay for the agreed treatment if the health insurance company does not cover the treatment. The type of practice organization also plays an important role, as specialized practices with long waiting times or practices that require specific preparations and special staff for individual appointments may charge cancellation fees. However, practices with full waiting rooms usually have no problems filling vacant appointments.

Doctors' practices are generally allowed to refuse patients unless there is an emergency and there is a valid reason for the refusal, especially if the practice is overloaded. If the practice is difficult to reach, patients should cancel their appointments as early as possible, either by telephone, email or through a representative. Both privately and publicly insured patients have to pay cancellation fees themselves, as the health insurance companies do not cover them.

The lack of uniformity in the legal assessment of cancellation fees and practice rejections can lead to confusion for patients and uncertainty for medical practices. It is important that patients educate themselves on the applicable rules and regulations in their area to avoid unpleasant financial surprises.