What document does a patient sign to authorize payment of claims directly to the provider?

• A. Assignment of benefits
• B. Authorization to release information
• C. Consent for treatment
• D. Power of attorney

Answer: (A)

Assignment of benefits is the document a patient signs to authorize payment of insurance claims directly to the provider. When the patient signs it, the insurer is allowed to send payment straight to the provider for the services billed, rather than reimbursing the patient first. This streamlines the billing process and helps ensure timely payment to the provider. The patient typically still remains responsible for any copays, deductibles, or charges not covered by the plan.

This differs from a release of information form, which is about sharing patient data; a consent for treatment form, which grants permission for medical procedures; and a power of attorney, which gives someone else legal authority to act on the patient’s behalf in financial or health matters.