What should be entered in Box 11a if the patient is uninsured?

The correct entry for Box 11a when the patient is uninsured is the "SIGNATURE ON FILE" statement. This box is used to indicate whether the patient has signed a form granting permission to release their medical information for billing purposes. When a patient is uninsured, this signature is essential for ensuring that communication regarding their medical services can occur, even without insurance coverage.

Including the "SIGNATURE ON FILE" statement confirms that the healthcare provider has the necessary authorization to process claims or manage billing processes related to the patient's care. This is crucial for accurate documentation and compliance with healthcare regulations. While other options pertain to different contexts, Box 11a specifically focuses on the authorization aspect of patient care, making the "SIGNATURE ON FILE" statement the appropriate entry.