Ala. Admin. Code r. 536-X-8-.07

Current through Register Vol. 43, No. 1, October 31, 2024

Section 536-X-8-.07 - Financial Arrangements

Marriage and family therapists make financial arrangements with clients, third-party payers, and supervisees that are reasonably understandable and conform to accepted professional practices.

(1) Marriage and family therapists do not offer or accept kickbacks, rebates, bonuses, or other remuneration for referrals; fee-for-service arrangements are not prohibited.

(2) Prior to entering into the therapeutic or supervisory relationship, marriage and family therapists clearly disclose and explain to clients and supervisees:

(a) all financial arrangements and fees related to professional services, including charges for canceled or missed appointments;

(b) the use of collection agencies or legal measures for nonpayment; and

(c) the procedure for obtaining payment from the client, to the extent allowed by law, if payment is denied by the third-party payer. Once services have begun, therapists provide reasonable notice of any changes in fees or other charges.

(3) Marriage and family therapists give reasonable notice to clients with unpaid balances of their intent to seek collection by agency or legal recourse. When such action is taken, therapists will not disclose clinical information.

(4) Marriage and family therapists represent facts truthfully to clients, third-party payers, and supervisees regarding services rendered

(5) Bartering for professional services may be conducted only if:

(a) the supervisee or client requests it,

(b) the relationship is not exploitative,

(c) the professional relationship is not distorted, and

(d) a clear written contract is established.

(6) Marriage and family therapists may not withhold records under their immediate control that are requested and needed for a client's treatment solely because payment has not been received for past services, except as otherwise provided by law.

Ala. Admin. Code r. 536-X-8-.07

New Rule: Filed December 22, 2009; effective January 26, 2010. Amended: Filed February 8, 2012; effective March 14, 2012.

Author: The Alabama Board of Examiners in Marriage and Family Therapy

Statutory Authority:Code of Ala. 1975, §§ 34-17A-1 thru 34-17A-26.