Which of the following best describes the information shown in the remittance advice regarding patient charges?

• A. Allowed amounts only
• B. Denial codes only
• C. Coinsurance, copayments, and deductibles
• D. Payment dates only

Answer: (C)

The main idea here is that the remittance advice shows what the patient will owe after the insurance payment. The portion that represents the patient’s financial responsibility is made up of coinsurance, copayments, and deductibles. These are the charges the patient must pay, either at the time of service or after the insurer has paid. While remittance advice may also include other details like what the insurer paid for the service, adjustments, or denial codes, the information that directly reflects what the patient is charged is the coinsurance, copayments, and deductibles. For example, after the insurer pays their portion, the remittance advice will itemize the patient’s share, such as a deductible amount plus any coinsurance, which sums to the total patient balance.