Which document allows an insurer to pay the provider directly for covered services?

Which document allows an insurer to pay the provider directly for covered services?

• A. Claim form
• B. Consent
• C. Authorization
• D. Assignment of benefits form

Answer: (D)

An assignment of benefits is the document that allows the insurer to pay the provider directly for covered services. By signing it, the patient authorizes the insurer to send payment straight to the provider rather than to the patient, which can speed reimbursement and reduce the patient’s upfront expenses. This is commonly used when a provider will bill the insurer directly and collect any remaining balance from the patient, if applicable. A claim form, by contrast, is used to request payment from the insurer after services are rendered. Consent is permission given by the patient for certain actions or care, not for directing where payment goes. Authorization is permission to release or disclose health information or to approve a procedure, not to route payment.

An assignment of benefits is the document that allows the insurer to pay the provider directly for covered services. By signing it, the patient authorizes the insurer to send payment straight to the provider rather than to the patient, which can speed reimbursement and reduce the patient’s upfront expenses. This is commonly used when a provider will bill the insurer directly and collect any remaining balance from the patient, if applicable.

A claim form, by contrast, is used to request payment from the insurer after services are rendered. Consent is permission given by the patient for certain actions or care, not for directing where payment goes. Authorization is permission to release or disclose health information or to approve a procedure, not to route payment.