When Discounts Cross the Line: What ABA Practice Owners Need to Know About Waiving Deductibles
Waiving patient deductibles might sound like a compassionate way to help families access ABA services, but this practice can have serious legal and ethical consequences for providers. In this article, Stephen Smith breaks down the hidden risks facing ABA business owners who are tempted to match “big box” competitors by not collecting required out-of-pocket costs. He explains why payers, both public and private, prohibit routine waivers—and how ignoring these rules exposes clinics to clawbacks, audits, and even network termination. More than a compliance issue, waiving...
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deductibles without proper documentation can damage your reputation, erode trust with families, and set a dangerous precedent for your team.
Stephen explores how the pressure to “compete” is real, especially for small and mid-sized ABA practices. He gives examples of enforcement actions and explains why the BACB’s Ethics Code requires BCBAs to honor signed payer contracts. If you’re unsure about your policies, this article provides practical steps to review contracts, train your team, and communicate clearly with families—so you stay compliant without sacrificing compassion or transparency.
The takeaway: Shortcuts may seem like a competitive edge, but long-term, they put your ABA company at risk. Focus on strong contracts, ethical billing, and open communication to build a resilient, client-centered practice. Find out more......
NASQN & 3 Pie Squared Partner to Empower Ethical ABA Practice Growth
In this partnership announcement, 3 Pie Squared and the National Alliance for Special Needs Quality Networks (NASQN) join forces to strengthen support for ABA practice owners who want to grow ethically and sustainably. The article outlines how the collaboration will provide business owners, directors, and startup founders with practical tools—like onboarding templates, billing training, and customizable ABA handbooks—to help their clinics thrive while upholding the highest ethical standards. Together, NASQN and 3 Pie Squared will offer webinars, expert roundtables, and resource libraries focused on solving real-world business challenges facing ABA providers in today’s evolving market.
Stephen Smith emphasizes the shared commitment to transparency, actionable advice, and putting client well-being first. For ABA owners navigating hiring, rate negotiations, or readiness for scaling, this partnership delivers credible guidance—helping leaders build businesses that are compliant, ethical, and ready for the future.
If you want to grow your practice with confidence, this article highlights how joining the NASQN-3 Pie Squared community gives you access to the right tools, expert support, and a network of like-minded professionals. Find out more.....
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