Which of the following is a main method used by payers to compensate providers in accounting?

• A. Equity method
• B. Straight-line depreciation
• C. LIFO inventory method
• D. Fee-for-service

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the context of the question: The problem is asking about methods used by payers to compensate providers in accounting, which relates to healthcare or service industries where payment models are applied.
2. Clarify the incorrect options: The 'Equity method' is used in accounting for investments in other companies, 'Straight-line depreciation' is a method for allocating the cost of an asset over its useful life, and 'LIFO inventory method' is an inventory valuation method. None of these are related to compensating providers.
3. Introduce the correct concept: 'Fee-for-service' is a payment model where providers are compensated based on the services they perform. This is a common method in healthcare accounting and involves billing for each service rendered.
4. Explain why 'Fee-for-service' is correct: This method directly ties payment to the quantity and type of services provided, making it distinct from the other accounting methods listed, which are unrelated to provider compensation.
5. Summarize the key takeaway: In accounting for provider compensation, 'Fee-for-service' is a main method because it aligns payment with the services delivered, unlike the other options which pertain to different areas of accounting.