Letter for Divorced or Separated Parents

Here at Kids Central Pediatrics, we understand that separation and divorce can be difficult for families. Parents and children will likely both experience stress as they learn a new “normal” for their individual family. We are here to help any way we can, but please keep in mind that the care of the pediatric patient will always be our priority. In that spirit, we want to share the Kids Central Pediatrics guidelines and policy for parents who are divorced/separated and are navigating the world of co-parenting.

Contact Information 

The address listed as “primary” in the child’s file should be the address at which the child resides, or in the case of shared custody, the primary address should be the address of the parent providing the insurance coverage. In shared custody cases, both parents should be listed in the child’s file.

Custody

In order to avoid any confusion for our staff, and to make sure we are managing your child’s care appropriately, Kids Central Pediatrics requires legal documentation of any provisions the court has set forth in regards to custody and communication with our office.

In the absence of legal orders, we expect that both parents will cooperate with each other in the best interest of the child. We are unable to restrict communication with any parent without court documentation.

Parental Communication

Both parents are entitled to care information regarding their child, except in the absence of a legal agreement, and parents are expected to communicate with each other about pediatric care, concerns, insurance information, billing, appointment scheduling and treatment plans.

Financial Responsibilities

Co-pays are collected at the time of the office visit and the attending parent is expected to pay at that time. If the court agreement states the other parent is responsible for copayments, it is the accompanying parent’s responsibility to pay at the time of the visit and collect reimbursement from the responsible parent. It is not the responsibility of Kids Central Pediatrics to bill the other parents. We will be happy to provide a receipt.

If parents are found to be deceptive with the practice when it comes to financial information or responsibility, the child could be dismissed from Kids Central Pediatrics care. For more information on KCP’s policy, please contact your child’s clinic and we will be happy to discuss over the phone.