A patient eligible for insurance who cannot afford a necessary procedure is offered a discount. What must the dentist do?

When a dentist offers a discount to a patient eligible for insurance, it is essential for the dentist to notify the insurance company about the discount provided. This is important because insurance companies often have specific rules regarding discounted services. Not informing the insurance company could lead to issues of transparency and may violate contractual obligations between the dentist and the insurer.

By notifying the insurance company, the dentist ensures that the insurer is aware of the adjusted fee for the procedure, which can affect the processing of claims and reimbursement. It maintains ethical practices and compliance with legal requirements, as adjusting fees can impact the overall cost structure that the insurer needs to account for.

While other options could seem plausible in the context of managing patient finances, they do not address the vital requirement of communication with the insurance provider regarding changes in charges due to discounts. This action protects both the patient and the dentist in maintaining proper channels of communication and upholding ethical standards in billing and insurance practices.