What should be included in a write-off policy in hospital billing, and where is it applied in Resolute?

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A write-off policy is about removing debts that are deemed uncollectible from patient accounts and the overall accounts receivable in a controlled, consistent way. The policy should clearly define who qualifies for charity care and who qualifies as bad debt, what documentation and approvals are required, and the exact process for applying the write-off when those criteria are met. This keeps billing honest and compliant and prevents writing off balances that aren’t truly uncollectible.

The correct answer is best because it covers both essential elements: the criteria for charity or bad debt, and the rule that write-offs are applied per policy to balances deemed uncollectible. This ensures that write-offs are not random, not applied to amounts that have already been paid, and are traceable for reporting and auditing.

In Resolute, write-offs are applied in the accounts receivable area by posting an adjustment to the patient account for balances that meet the policy’s uncollectible criteria. The adjustment is categorized appropriately (often as charity or bad debt) and reduces the uncollectible balance on the AR ledger, preserving accurate aging and financial reporting.