Florida Physical Therapy Jurisprudence Practice Exam

A licensee receiving compensation from a physician for referrals is termed a ________.

1. Referral agent

2. Pass-through provider

3. Kickback

4. Commissioned agent

The correct answer is: Kickback

The term that best describes a licensee receiving compensation from a physician for referrals is "kickback." In the context of physical therapy and healthcare, a kickback refers to any remuneration provided in exchange for patient referrals. This practice is considered unethical and is often illegal because it can compromise patient care and violate laws aimed at ensuring fair practices within the healthcare system. Engaging in kickbacks can lead to legal repercussions for both the licensee and the physician involved, as it undermines the integrity of medical referrals and can result in inflated healthcare costs and a focus on profit over patient welfare. The concept of kickbacks is particularly relevant in discussions about healthcare regulations, as lawmakers seek to prevent conflicts of interest and protect patient interests. The other terms provided do not accurately represent this situation. For instance, a referral agent typically describes someone who facilitates referrals without implying an exchange of compensation that raises ethical concerns, while a commissioned agent might imply a legitimate agent receiving a fee without the illicit connotations of a kickback. A pass-through provider does not generally relate to the direct compensation for referrals in the same manner.