Can physicians offer extra services for a block fee?

Yes. Some physicians offer patients the convenience of a set annual fee (block fee) that covers a basket of uninsured services. This is acceptable as long as:

• Paying for uninsured services is not a condition for access to insured services;
• The set fee includes only uninsured services;
• The patient understands what is and is not included in the block fee;
• The patient is aware of, and agrees to, the fee; and
• The patient has a choice between the set fee and a pay-as-you-go system.