QUESTION
Is it legal to be charged money because of a missed appointment?
Asked on Mar 23rd, 2013 on Bankruptcy - South Carolina
More details to this question:
I recently missed a doctors appointment and was told I would be charged $25 for the missed appointment. Is that legal?
4 ANSWERS
Bankruptcy Law Attorney serving Livingston, NJ
Partner at
Law Office of Stuart M. Nachbar, P.C.
2 Awards
Yes, a missed appointment fee is legal if notice is given.
Answered on Mar 25th, 2013 at 4:03 PM
Debt Collection Attorney serving Chicago, IL
Partner at
Edelman, Combs, Latturner & Goodwin, LLC
2 Awards
If the policy was announced prior to the time you made the appointment, yes.
Answered on Mar 25th, 2013 at 4:02 PM
Bankruptcy Attorney serving Charleston, SC
at
Davis Law Firm
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Is it legal, there is nothing that says you have to agree to pay that fee. Saying that, if you do not pay the fee there is nothing to keep the Doctor from refusing to see you for a future appointment. I do not think it is fair to be charged the fee if the Doctor was already running behind or they were able to see an emergency appointment that they might not have been able to see if you had not missed the appointment. All professionals, Doctors, Lawyers, Accountants who are good work on a tight schedule. The amount of rent or payroll to be paid would not be reduced by the missed appointment. Pay the bill and make sure that you do not miss your next appointment. When you see the doctor, if the $25.00 fee is a true hardship, mention this to him and the Doctor may cancel the charge.
Answered on Mar 25th, 2013 at 4:02 PM