When Professional Courtesy Discounts Cross the Line

Professional Courtesy Discounts in Chiropractic

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At KMC University, we often hear questions about professional courtesy discounts. These discounts allow providers to extend free or reduced-cost care to certain groups, but they can also lead to compliance problems if not handled correctly.

What Are Professional Courtesy Discounts?

Professional courtesy discounts are elective reductions in fees that providers sometimes offer to specific groups. Chiropractors most often extend them to:

• Office staff and their immediate families
• The doctor’s own family members
• Other providers in the community and their families
• First responders and military personnel
• Clergy and missionaries

Offering these discounts is perfectly acceptable—but only when managed with the right policies.

Where Practices Go Wrong

Problems arise when insurance enters the picture. For example:

• Waiving co-pays or deductibles — this is never appropriate.
• Charging one fee but collecting another — a red flag for auditors and payers.

Without written policies, discounts offered on a case-by-case basis may appear inconsistent or even fraudulent.

Why Written Policies Matter

Discounts should never be given just because the provider “feels like it.” Instead, they must follow a clear, written policy that defines exactly who qualifies and under what circumstances. Written policies:

• Ensure consistency and fairness
• Demonstrate compliance in the event of an audit
• Protect your practice from accusations of improper billing

Protect Your Practice While Offering Courtesy Care

The bottom line: professional courtesy discounts can build goodwill, but only when backed by strong policies. They should not compromise compliance or create risk by mishandling insurance requirements.

If you’re a KMC University member, you’ll find detailed training in our Library on professional courtesy discounts. Not yet a member? schedule a free Discovery Assessment to find out if you are compliant with your courtesy discounts.

We’re here to help you make sense of the complex world of chiropractic reimbursement and compliance.