If a patient is covered by two different family plans, what is a primary consideration for payment order?

The primary consideration for determining the order of payment when a patient is covered by two different family plans is indeed the custodial status of the parent. This is because insurance policies typically follow the rule that the coverage of the parent with whom the child resides most of the time is considered the primary insurance. In cases where the parents share custody, the parent whose birthday comes first in the calendar year is often considered primary.

This consideration is essential for ensuring that claims are processed correctly and that the benefits are utilized in the most effective way possible. Understanding custodial status helps clarify which parent's insurance plan pays first, thus preventing disputes over which plan should cover the costs of care and ensuring that patients receive their benefits without unnecessary delays. Knowing this principle is vital for anyone working in patient access roles, as it directly impacts the claims process and the patient's experience with the healthcare system.