Which payment method is based on a fixed amount per month per patient?

The correct answer is capitation. This payment method is structured so that healthcare providers receive a fixed amount of money per patient each month, regardless of the number of services provided. This model is intended to promote efficiency and can help control healthcare costs by encouraging providers to focus on preventive care and the overall health of patients rather than the quantity of services delivered.

By receiving a set fee, providers have an incentive to keep patients healthy and manage resources wisely, as their payment does not increase with additional treatment or services. This approach can streamlining administrative processes and making budgeting easier for healthcare organizations.

In contrast, other payment methods like fee-for-service compensate providers for each individual service rendered, which can lead to an emphasis on quantity over quality. Discounted fee-for-service refers to a negotiation process for payment rates typically applied after services are rendered, while retrospective payment involves reimbursing providers after the fact based on the costs incurred. These alternatives do not provide the fixed monthly payment structure associated with capitation.