What is the term for the arrangement when fees for services may be decreased depending on patients income and family size?

• A. Sliding scale
• B. Fee for service
• C. Capitation
• D. Indemnity

Answer: (A)

When fees are adjusted downward based on a patient’s income and family size, that arrangement is called a sliding scale. It allows a clinic to offer discounts or adjust charges so people with lower income can access care, with the exact discount often determined by income level and the number of dependents. This approach helps ensure affordability and access to services for patients who might not be able to pay standard rates.

Why the other terms don’t fit: fee-for-service charges patients for each service and does not adjust fees based on income. Capitation pays a provider a fixed amount per enrolled patient per period, regardless of services used, and is a payment model between payer and provider, not an income-based patient discount. Indemnity refers to traditional insurance reimbursement where patients pay upfront and are reimbursed by the insurer, not to a system that lowers patient fees based on income.