The portion of the charge that a patient pays at the time of service is called what?

• A. Copayment
• B. Deductible
• C. Coinsurance
• D. Premium

Answer: (A)

The fixed amount paid at the time of service is called a copayment. Copayments are preset by the insurance plan and are paid up front, regardless of the actual charges for the visit. This differs from a deductible, which is the amount you must pay before the insurer begins to cover services; coinsurance, which is the percentage of costs you pay after meeting the deductible; and a premium, which is the ongoing payment to maintain coverage. Since the question focuses on the amount due at the visit itself, copayment is the correct term.