Final answer:
The difference between a physician's fee and the insurance carrier's allowed amount is known as the 'balance' or 'balance billing' and may be the patient's responsibility to pay, contingent on insurance contracts and regulations.
Step-by-step explanation:
The difference between the physician's fee and the insurance carrier's allowed amount is often referred to as the 'balance' or 'balance billing' when the physician charges more than the insurance approves. In many cases, this balance may not be billed to the patient, depending on the insurance contract and regulations. However, if it is allowed, the patient may be responsible for paying this amount, in addition to any co-pays, deductibles, or coinsurance required by their health insurance plan. This practice is especially prevalent in the U.S. healthcare system, where negotiated rates between providers and insurers can result in different allowances for the same medical services.