Sliding Scale Discount Program (NHSC)

The Spokane Counselor Sliding Fee Discount Program Policy

Purpose:

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The Spokane Counselor is dedicated to providing high-quality mental health services to all individuals, regardless of their ability to pay. This policy outlines the Sliding Fee Discount Program designed to ensure services are accessible and affordable to those in need (Uninsured or underinsured).  In addition to quality healthcare, clients are entitled to financial counseling by someone who can understand and offer possible solutions for those who cannot pay in full. The Federal Poverty Guidelines are used in creating and annually updating the sliding fee schedule to determine eligibility. 

 

A request for discounted services may be made by the client, a family, or a case manager or social service staff on the client’s behalf. Please contact us for access to the necessary forms for completion. 

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OVERVIEW OF APPLICATION: 

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Eligibility Criteria:

1. Income: Eligibility for the Sliding Fee Discount Program is determined based on the household income in relation to the current Federal Poverty Guidelines.

2. Household Size: Discounts are also based on the total number of people living in the household. A definition of a 'household' is defined as a group of two people or more (one of whom is the householder) related by birth, marriage, or adoption and residing together; all such people (including related subfamily members) are considered as members of one family.

3. Application: Clients must complete a Sliding Fee Discount Program Application (we will email it to you upon request) and provide necessary documentation to verify income and household size.

Application Process:

1. Request Application: Clients can request an application form from our administrative staff at info@thespokanecounselor.com

2. Form can also be downloaded by clicking HERE

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Submit Documentation:

 Required documents include but are not limited to:

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• Tax returns

• Recent Pay stubs

• Social Security award letters

• Unemployment benefit statements

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1. Review: Completed applications and documents should be submitted to your provider or emailed to slidingfeediscount@thespokanecounselor.com. The application will be reviewed within 7-10 business days.

2. Notification: Applicants will be notified of their eligibility and discount level by mail or email.

Discount Levels:

• Discounts are provided on a sliding scale, based on household income and size.

Reassessment:

• Eligibility for the Sliding Fee Discount Program will be reassessed annually.

• Clients must provide updated documentation annually or if there is a significant change in income or household size.

Confidentiality:

• All personal and financial information provided for the Sliding Fee Discount Program is confidential and used solely for determining eligibility.

• Information will not be shared without the client's written consent, except as required by law.

Free Services Policy:

• In cases of extreme financial hardship, clients may be eligible for free services.

• Eligibility for free services will be determined on a case-by-case basis, considering the client's specific circumstances.

Non-Discrimination:

• The Spokane Counselor does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, age, disability, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, or religion in its sliding fee program.

Appeals Process:

• Clients who are denied a discount or feel their discount level is incorrect may appeal the decision.

• Appeals must be submitted in writing within 30 days of receiving the discount determination.

• Appeals will be reviewed by the Practice Manager, and a final decision will be communicated within 15 business days.

Contact Information:

• For questions or assistance with the application process, please contact us at:

  • Phone: 509.606.0588

  • Email: slidingfeediscount@thespokanecounselor.com

  • Website: thespokanecounselor.com