Who is classified as a "new patient"?

A "new patient" is classified as someone who has not received services from the provider in the past three years. This classification is important in healthcare as it helps providers determine the appropriate billing and treatment protocols. Insurance companies and healthcare practices often need to differentiate between new and established patients for various reasons, including reimbursement rates, required documentation, and the extent of the initial consultation.

The reasoning behind this definition is focused on the idea that a significant period of time has passed since the patient last interacted with the specific provider. After three years, the patient's needs or conditions may have changed, necessitating a comprehensive evaluation and maybe a fresh treatment plan.

Understanding this classification helps healthcare providers ensure they meet regulatory requirements while also providing tailored care to patients who may have experienced changes in their health status or treatment preferences.