Hospital-Based Clinics

Hospital-based clinics (HBCs) are outpatient departments, like doctor’s offices, that operate within a hospital.

Care

Hospital-based clinics can further streamline care by aligning services with the hospital. HBCs are held to the same strict quality standards as all Ballad Health hospital departments and are monitored by The Joint Commission, the accrediting body of more than 22,000 healthcare organizations in the United States. Additional benefits include increased access to services and programs.

Billing

The billing structure for hospital-based clinics is different from a standalone doctor’s office. Health insurance plans and programs pay in different ways for services provided by HBCs. The fees for HBC services are separated into two parts:

1. The technical component which is representative of the use of facilities, equipment, team members and supplies.

2. The professional charges for services provided by the patients’ clinician.

The facility may charge for use of the space, use of ancillary services and other services provided by the facility during the patients encounter.

Generally, Medicare and Medicaid payers will pay for the facility component. Most commercial insurance plans do not pay for the use of the facility, but do pay for the use of ancillary services. If the payer does not pay for the use of the facility charges, the patient will not be responsible for that portion of the bill.

The cost will depend on the services provided and your insurance coverage. Please contact your insurance provider for a detailed summary of costs or specific questions regarding payment.

If you are having a hard time paying for your medical bills, Ballad Health has a Financial Assistance Policy to assist in providing access to care to those who qualify. This policy and associated documents are available in Hospital Admitting areas. Patients can also find more information about the policy and learn how to apply here: Financial Assistance for Medical Care | Ballad Health.