Common questions about clinic fees

An uninsured service is a service that is not covered by OHIP. A request can arise in a medical clinic without being an insured service. Whether a fee may apply depends on the exact service and the Ontario rules that apply.

Completing a form, note, certificate, or report may require the clinic to understand the request, review relevant records, decide whether an assessment is needed, provide a professional opinion, and prepare the document accurately. Some related services may be covered by OHIP, some may be billed to a patient or third party, and some may not permit a separate fee.

Whenever possible, the clinic should explain an uninsured-service fee before the service or work is completed. Ask what the fee covers, who is responsible for payment, what amount is expected, and when payment is due.

Copying, preparing, reviewing, or transferring medical records can involve administrative and professional work. A reasonable fee may apply depending on the request. Ask whether selected records or a summary would meet your needs and request an estimate before the records are prepared.

A clinic may have a missed-appointment or late-cancellation policy. Whether a fee applies depends on the clinic's communicated policy, the appointment involved, the notice provided, and the circumstances. Explain any exceptional circumstances and ask whether the charge can be reviewed.

The patient or the organization that requested the work may be responsible for payment depending on the request, the agreement between the parties, and the applicable rules. Confirm the payer, expected work, estimated fee, and payment terms before the clinic begins whenever possible.

An invoice requests payment. A receipt confirms that payment was received. A statement summarizes account activity and may show invoices, payments, adjustments, and an outstanding balance.

No single rule applies to every service. Some services may be subject to HST while others may be exempt. The answer depends on the nature and purpose of the service and applicable tax rules. Ask the clinic whether tax is included or added.

Contact the clinic and ask what service or request the charge relates to, who is responsible for payment, how the amount was calculated, whether tax applies, and when payment is due. If you believe there is an error, ask the clinic to review the account.

Contact the clinic and ask what options may be available. Depending on the circumstances, the clinic may consider flexibility, a payment arrangement, a reduction, or a waiver. An outstanding uninsured-service balance should not cause a patient to avoid seeking medically necessary care.

Email and SMS can be convenient, but each method has privacy and security limitations. The appropriate method depends on the information, purpose, urgency, available safeguards, and clinic policy. Do not assume email or SMS is monitored for an urgent medical concern.

No. ClinicFees.ca provides general education and does not access clinic records, invoices, payments, or patient information. Questions or concerns about a specific charge must be directed to the clinic involved.