If you want to move patient dates back in time for a self-pay scenario, what sign should you use?

• A. Positive
• B. Both positive and negative
• C. Zero
• D. Negative

Answer: (D)

Date arithmetic uses a sign to show whether you add or subtract time from a date. To move a date backward, you apply a negative offset. A negative offset subtracts days from the original date, pulling it earlier. A positive offset adds days, moving the date forward. Zero means no change. So, to move patient dates back in time, you use a negative value for the adjustment. For example, moving a service date from 2024-01-10 back by 3 days gives 2024-01-07. This is why the negative sign is the correct choice.