Final answer:
The first option a receptionist might offer to a client who cannot pay their bill is payment plan options, allowing for easier management of the client's debt.
Step-by-step explanation:
If a client is unable to pay their bill, the first option a receptionist may offer is A. Payment plan options. This approach allows the client to settle their debt in smaller, more manageable instalments, making it easier for them to pay over time. Offering payment plans can be beneficial for both the client, who may be facing temporary financial difficulties, and the business, as it increases the likelihood of collecting the owed amount.
Option B, Discounted services, may also be considered; however, it is typically not the first solution, as it results in immediate loss of revenue for the services provided. Referral to another clinic or offering free services for the next visit might not address the immediate issue of the unpaid bill and could lead to further financial losses for the business.