If an office manager bills insurance for work not completed, what should the dentist do?

When an office manager bills insurance for work that has not been completed, the ethical and legal course of action for the dentist is to request that the payment be returned. This approach aligns with principles of honesty and integrity in the practice of dentistry. Billing for services that were not rendered constitutes fraud, and failing to rectify this situation can expose the dentist to legal liabilities, including repercussions from regulatory bodies or insurance providers.

Requesting the payment be returned not only addresses the unethical billing behavior but also underscores the dentist's commitment to ethical practice and compliance with state laws governing dental procedures and billing practices. This action demonstrates accountability and a willingness to uphold the standards of the profession, reinforcing trust with both patients and insurers.

Maintaining integrity in billing practices is crucial to prevent potential investigations and penalties and to ensure that the practice operates within the bounds of the law. Additionally, taking corrective action can help maintain a positive reputation and foster an environment where ethical practices are valued and adhered to. Therefore, the correct response is to actively seek the return of any payment received for unrendered services.