Good Faith Estimate Template

What is a Good Faith Estimate Form?

A Good Faith Estimate Form is a document healthcare providers provide to help patients understand their expected charges for medical procedures or services. It includes all the necessary information for patients to make informed decisions about their care under the No Surprises Act, reducing the likelihood of unexpected medical bills. This document supports transparency and empowers patients to compare Good Faith Estimate Forms for alternative treatments, helping them choose options that align with their healthcare needs and budget.

A Good Faith Estimate Template streamlines the process of providing accurate cost breakdowns. It typically includes details like patient information, a summary of healthcare items, a detailed list of services, expected charges, and any relevant additional information about potential fees. By using a GFE Template Form, healthcare providers ensure patients are fully aware of all costs upfront. These forms foster better communication between patients and providers while improving trust and financial clarity. Including this form in the intake form packet or alongside other documents during the care process can further enhance patient understanding and satisfaction.

How does a Good Faith Estimate Form template work?

Our free printable template allows you to provide your patients with an accurate and detailed estimate of their medical costs quickly. Follow these five simple steps to effectively use the Good Faith Estimate Form template:

Step 1: Download the template

Access the template by clicking "Use template," which opens it on the Carepatron app. You can customize the template there before you fill or download it. You can also click "Download" to directly save a non-customizable but fillable and printable PDF to your device.

Step 2: Fill in patient information

Enter the patient’s details, including their name, date of birth, contact information, and mailing address. Select the preferred method of communication (email, phone, or mail).

Step 3: Provide diagnosis and scheduling details

Input the primary and secondary diagnoses, if applicable, along with any known diagnosis codes. Indicate the scheduled date of the service or provide the expected service timeline if the date is not yet confirmed.

Step 4: List health care items and expected charges

Detail the health care items and services expected to be provided. Include a clear description of each item or service, along with the expected charges, ensuring accuracy and clarity for the patient.

Step 5: Review, share, and store

Double-check the completed form to ensure all the necessary information is included. Share the finalized form with the patient and retain a copy for your records, complying with documentation and regulatory requirements.

When would you use a Good Faith Estimate Template?

The Good Faith Estimate Form template is used in situations where healthcare providers or facilities must offer patients a clear, itemized estimate of expected costs for medical services. Below are common scenarios:

For uninsured or self-pay clients

When a client does not have health insurance or chooses to pay for healthcare services out of pocket, this template helps them understand all anticipated costs associated with their care. It ensures that clients are informed about potential expenses before committing to a procedure.

To comply with the No Surprises Act requirements

Under the No Surprises Act, healthcare providers and facilities are required to offer a Good Faith Estimate Form to clients. This ensures that clients receive detailed information about expected charges for their medical services.

Before scheduling or billing for services

The form is used before a client undergoes a procedure or treatment. It helps outline all associated costs, including the primary service and any additional fees, so the client can make informed decisions about their care.

When clients request a cost estimate for comparison or financial planning

Clients often use this form to review and compare the estimated costs of different providers or facilities. It allows them to understand their options, ensuring they can select a provider or treatment plan that aligns with their budget.

To collect signatures and maintain a record for compliance

After completing the form, healthcare providers can request the client to sign and date it as acknowledgment of receipt. This signed document serves as a record for both the provider and the client, ensuring accountability and compliance with regulatory requirements. The document can also include a page URL or account reference for easy tracking and future use.

To address client concerns about unexpected charges

If a client has questions or concerns about specific costs outlined in the form, this template allows providers to answer these inquiries with clarity. It includes all the necessary details to explain why certain charges are expected, helping to build trust and avoid disputes.

Benefits of a Good Faith Estimate Template

Our free Good Faith Estimate Template can help ensure that you and your patient clearly understand the charges associated with treatment. Here are some of its other benefits:

It's fully digital

Our free template is available for you to download and customize in any way. You can also store it on the web or your computer for fast access and easy editing.

It's comprehensive

This Good Faith Estimate Template has all the general sections you need to explain your fees to your patient, including a breakdown of the different components.

It gives patients a clear picture of estimated costs

A Good Faith Estimate Template will provide your patient with a clear and detailed picture of what their treatment is likely to cost. This helps them budget for their medical expenses and also enables them to communicate more effectively.

It's legally binding

Using this Good Faith Estimate Template to inform your patients of their expected costs will help protect you from any potential legal issues. Legal documents like these are essential for protecting both parties and can help avoid misunderstandings.