Which practice helps ensure ethical payment practices for patients?

• A. Upcoding or fraud
• B. Transparent billing and advocating access to care
• C. Withholding care due to cost
• D. Billing only after payer approves

Answer: (B)

Ethical payment practices center on transparency and advocating for patients to ensure they understand costs and can access care without financial barriers. Transparent billing means patients know exactly what is charged, what insurance covers, and what they owe, in clear terms, with the opportunity to discuss options or financial assistance. When nurses also advocate for access to care, they help patients navigate coverage, obtain needed information, and connect them with programs that reduce financial obstacles, supporting autonomy, beneficence, and justice.

Upcoding or fraud is illegal and violates professional ethics, harming patients and trust. Withholding care due to cost is unethical because financial barriers should not prevent needed treatment. Billing only after payer approval might be a routine administrative step, but it does not by itself ensure patients understand charges or have their access protected; it can also cause delays and confusion if not paired with clear communication.