The Green Bottle
A Sliding Scale Method
The green bottle sliding scale was created by Alexis J. Cunningfolk. It’s a way to “address systemic inequalities of class in our culture.” It reconigzes that “financial resources are not and should not be the only determining factor in whether or not someone can access” care from a licensed professional. You can see the descriptions for the green bottle sliding scale method below.
True Cost
This is the price that we would charge if we didn’t have a sliding scale. It’s the true cost of the service.
Middle Cost
This is the price for those who don’t meet the description for the true cost or the bottom cost.
Bottom Cost
This price is for people whose financial circumstances make it so they could not afford services otherwise.
True Cost
The actual price
$180
I am can meet all my basic needs, such as food, housing, and transportation.
I have debt but it does not get in the way of meeting my basic needs
I own the place that I live or I rent a nice residence
I have a car that I own or lease
I am able to access health care if I need it
I have some financial savings that I can access
I am able to buy new items and purchase new clothing or go see a movie, etc. at least once a month
I can afford to take time off or go on holiday annually
Middle Cost
For those who don’t meet the criteria of true cost or bottom cost, but are somewhere in the middle
$150
I get stressed about meeting basic needs such as food, housing, and transportation
I have debt but I can still meet my basic needs
I have a car that I own or lease
I am able to access health care if I need it
It might be possbile to access financial savings
I have some income to buy new items and purchase new clothing or go see a movie, etc. at least once a month
I can take a vacation every year or every few years without risking financial problems
Bottom Cost
For those who could not otherwise recieve services
$100
I am often stressed about meeting my basic needs and I can’t always meet them
The debt that I have may keep me from meeting my basic needs
I have unreliable housing or rent a lower quality property
I do not have full access to a vechicle or I have limited access – I also can’t always afford gas
I am underemployed or unemployed
I qualify for food stamps or medicaid
I have no savings
I have only a little bit of or no expendable income
Most of the time, I cannot afford new items
I cannot afford to go on vacation or take time off
The original article by Cunningfolk is available HERE if you want more information about the Green Bottle Method.