Final answer:
The signature that authorizes the insurance company to pay the doctor directly is known as the assignment of benefits. It allows for direct payment from the insurer to the healthcare provider, streamlining the billing process for patients.
Step-by-step explanation:
The signature on file that authorizes the insurance company to pay the doctor directly is known as the assignment of benefits. This is the process where the patient allows the insurance company to make payments directly to the healthcare provider. In contrast, coordination of benefits refers to the process used when a patient has more than one insurance policy, and requires the insurers to coordinate payment to ensure no more than 100% of the cost is covered. The NPI or National Provider Identifier is a unique identification number for covered healthcare providers. Lastly, SOF pertains to the signature on file, but it does not directly refer to the authorization for direct payment to the doctor. It's important for patients to understand these terms, as they deal with the financial and administrative aspects of health care services.When signing an assignment of benefits, patients essentially transfer the right to receive payment from the insurance policy directly to their healthcare provider. This is useful in simplifying billing processes and ensuring that providers are paid conveniently. However, patients should be fully aware of their policy terms, as signing an assignment of benefits form may also mean giving the provider the right to make claims and appeal insurance company decisions on the patient's behalf.