Final answer:
Teresa, as a billing advocate, is most likely to serve as an advocate for the patient, ensuring accurate billing and helping to navigate any disputes with the insurance company or healthcare provider.
The correct option is c) Advocate for the patient
Step-by-step explanation:
Teresa serves as a billing advocate, which typically means her role is to act on behalf of the patient in dealings with insurance companies and healthcare providers regarding billing issues. Given the options provided, the most likely role Teresa would serve is c) Advocate for the patient. As a billing advocate, her primary responsibility is to ensure that the patient's bills are accurate, that they receive the maximum benefits available through their insurance plan, and to help navigate any disputes that arise between the patient, the insurance company (Net Health), and the provider (Star Serve).
She would not advocate for the insurance company, as their interests could potentially conflict with those of the patient. Similarly, while Teresa may work with healthcare providers to resolve billing issues, her role is to do so in the patient's best interest, not to represent the healthcare provider. Finally, while Teresa acts to facilitate the billing process and works with all parties involved, her duty is to protect and advance the interests of the patient above others.
The correct option is c) Advocate for the patient