A medical clinic physician that you refer all your patients to calls and says he wants to take you out to lunch every week to thank you for your referrals. What should you tell the doctor?

• A. You can't do it because it is a misdemeanor
• B. You need to get permission from your supervisor
• C. You need to go during your off hours
• D. You can't do it because it is a felony

Answer: (D)

Giving or accepting something of value in exchange for patient referrals is not allowed. In healthcare, a meal or ongoing dinner gifts tied to referral activity creates a financial incentive to refer patients to that doctor, which runs afoul of anti-kickback laws and professional standards. Under federal law, knowingly soliciting, receiving, offering, or paying kickbacks for referrals can be prosecuted as a felony, and state laws plus medical-board rules reinforce that such arrangements are unacceptable. Because of that, you should decline and explain that you cannot participate in anything that ties referrals to compensation. If the doctor presses the issue, refer to your clinic’s compliance or supervision channel for guidance.