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Card On File

For an efficient check-in and check-out we require all patients with private health insurances to provide us with a card that we can keep on file for payment purposes. In addition to credit card, we can also accept HSA (Health Savings Account), FSA (Flexible Spending Account), debit card or Flex Plan card. This requirement is not unique to our practice and more and more doctor's offices are starting to use credit card contracts. We want you to be well informed and comfortable in providing us with a card on file so we have put together this FAQ on the topic that you may find useful.

Card on File - FAQ

Q: I’ve never had to do this before at any other doctor’s office.

A: More and more doctor’s offices are starting to use credit card contracts. It is not uncommon in many medical practices, pharmacies and labs to require a credit card on file. Other businesses, like hotels, car rental agencies, Amazon and Netflix also request a card on file.

Q: I don’t have a credit card and/or I always pay cash.

A: You are welcome to leave a HSA (Health Savings Account), FSA (Flexible Spending Account), debit card or Flex Plan card on file. Our practice wants to switch away from less efficient forms of payment, so we have more time to focus on giving you quality care.

Q: I don’t like to give out my email.

A: Your email will ONLY be used to send you notifications and receipts concerning your card on file. We will not give it to anyone else, and we will not use it to contact you in any other way.

Q: I don’t have email

A: You can put down some relatives’ email who handles your medical bills

Q: What will my card be used for?

A: Your card on file will be used to cover any charges your insurance company did not cover. This includes copays, deductibles and co-insurance. If you have a one year card on file, you can pay your copay at appointments with your card on file, without swiping your card every time.

Q: What if I disagree with a charge?

A: We’ll send you an email five days before the charge is due to take place. If you feel that the charge is incorrect, we can hold it while you sort the situation out with your insurance company. The amount you owe is determined by your insurance company, not by our practice.

Q: What about identity theft and privacy?

A: You card will be stored by Elavon, Inc., a secure credit card processor affiliated with U.S. Bank that partners our practice to collect payments.

Q: I’m concerned that staff will have access to my card number.

A: Once the contract is established, office personnel will not have access to your card. Only the last 4 digits of your card will be viewable in our system.