2006-10-21 09:03:20 · 4 answers · asked by Tatum h 1 in Health ➔ Other - Health
Yes, ask them if they will accept "Medicare Rates." What is billed and what is accepted are not always the same.
2006-10-21 09:05:39 · answer #1 · answered by SirRob 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes, always. I'm an attorney and I always negotiate doctors rates. I dont know why people talk about things they dont know.
It is known in the medical industry that individuals without health insurance are usually bills three times more then they would bill an insurance companies. You really think Insurance companies pay those ridiculous rates. No. They line item them and pay according to 'industry established rates.' Like an average for a certain procedure of rates in the country.
Call the billing office and ask them how much insurance companies are billed for the same service. If they put up a fight, you have to decide how much its worth it to you. They would rather negotiate than not get anything at all. Hold your ground as long as you can. If you can mention ' lawyer' that sometimes helps 'cause they know we know.
Lastly you can try finding a nice lawyer that is willing to negotiate for you. It shouldnt cost too much, and might only take their presence, a call or letter.
Now, having said all that. If they disclosed rates ahead of time, and you agreed, that might be on you. But its still worth a try. It works better in emergency rooms where they wont disclose rates before treatment, then they seem to multiply a normal bill by 3.
2006-10-21 16:17:48 · answer #2 · answered by M G 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You can try, but the Mayo Clinic is not a swap meet. You always have the choice of going elsewhere.
2006-10-21 16:09:35 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Haha no George Costanza. You have to pay doctors what they say. Its not bargaining at a flea market.
2006-10-21 16:05:57 · answer #4 · answered by Walty 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋