What is the primary aim of financial counseling in healthcare settings?

The primary aim of financial counseling in healthcare settings is to assist patients in managing their medical expenses. This support is crucial for patients who may face financial barriers when seeking care, as healthcare costs can be overwhelming and confusing. Financial counselors work with patients to understand their insurance coverage, payment options, and available financial assistance programs, ultimately aiming to alleviate financial stress and empower patients to make informed decisions about their care. By focusing on helping patients navigate their medical expenses, financial counseling contributes to improving patient satisfaction and access to necessary healthcare services.

While increasing hospital revenue or ensuring correct billing are certainly relevant aspects of financial operations in healthcare, these goals are secondary to the primary mission of supporting patient financial health. Reducing the number of patient visits does not align with the objectives of financial counseling, which is about facilitating access rather than limiting it.