What is the maximum length of a financial counseling appointment for FAP or HCAP?

The maximum length of a financial counseling appointment for the Financial Assistance Program (FAP) or Hospital Care Assurance Program (HCAP) is 20 minutes. This duration is important to ensure that patients receive adequate time to discuss their financial situations and understand their options without feeling rushed. A 20-minute session allows for impactful engagement, during which the representative can gather necessary information, provide guidance, and answer any questions the patient may have. This timeframe balances the need for thoroughness with the demands of patient flow and service efficiency in a busy medical setting.

In contrast, shorter time limits may not provide enough time to cover complex financial concerns adequately. A session that is too short could lead to patients leaving without a clear understanding of their options, which could ultimately affect their access to necessary care. Therefore, setting a 20-minute limit reflects an understanding of both the patient's needs and the operational constraints of the medical facility.