A medical clinic physician you refer patients to offers to take you to lunch weekly to thank you for referrals. What should you tell the doctor?

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

Answer: (D)

Accepting ongoing meals or gifts from a physician who refers patients can create a real conflict of interest and raise concerns about improper inducement. The proper approach is to bring this to your supervisor or compliance office first, so they can review the situation, ensure it aligns with policy and legal rules, and document any agreement. This oversight protects both you and the organization from appearance of wrongdoing and ensures consistent ethical standards.

Going to lunch on off hours doesn’t address the policy and oversight aspect, and labeling the situation as a misdemeanor or felony isn’t accurate in itself. The responsible step is to obtain supervisor permission before engaging in such an arrangement.