Check your medical statements!

[Mehita]

Just a friendly PSA, probably more for USA folks than anyone, to check your medical bills and statements for errors before paying them. Don't go on autopilot and pay everything.

We just got double charged for my son's last GI appt on the same statement. Two identical line items. I called and yes, ooops, we goofed. They corrected it and issued a new statement.

Earlier this year they never even submitted his surgery to insurance and just sent us the bill. I've never see so many zero's! Thought I was going to have a heart attack. Again, a phone call corrected the error.

Love our hospital, hate their billing dept.

Can't afford a medical bill? Call. Most places are more than willing to work things out, reduce the fee, or even possibly cancel it depending on your circumstances.

End PSA.

 

[crohnsinct]

and ALWAYS double check the bill against your Explanation of Benefits that the insurance company provides. I have seen numerous docs, medical centers etc bill for incorrect amounts ie: charhing the full price not negotiated rate less insurance payment. Do NOT pay more than what your EOB says you should expect to pay. And while you are at it, you do have to double check EOB's. People make mistakes all the time.

There is a hospital very close to my house but because of their awful awful billing department my family has strict instructions to take me to the one clear across town no matter what shape I am in. Dealing with their billing department will kill me!

 

[GutlessWonder86]

As a previous medical biller at a local hospital, I've learned to be very vigilant in making sure there are no double charges and charges for something I never received.

better safe than sorry. When in doubt, you can call the billing dept. for help.

 

[nogutsnoglory]

I have seen some odd things on my EOB. "Consults" in the hospital where the doctor said hi and basically charges $500 for doing nothing.