I had blood drawn three days ago to check for a specific bacteria (stomach related). I don't have insurance and paid up front for the test, $37. I recieved a letter today saying "your lab results required further testing...the additional lab charge has been added to your account". Attached is a bill for $37. There is no additional explanation. I really don't think I should be required to pay twice for the test. It isn't my fault an additional test was required. Of course, I don't know who's fault it is, but why am I paying for it? What do you think? What would you do?
2007-03-16 14:19:19 · 5 answers · asked by Maggie 6 in Health ➔ General Health Care ➔ Other - General Health Care
I think if you approach them in the right manner you should get the outcome you are looking for. Firstly you cannot be charged for something unless you are asked if you want it done. They have made an error in just doing the test without your permission first. Was the Doctor requested to give them another request form? They do not have a leg to stand on because they did not follow the correct procedure. Another issue is, did they even find anything wrong or were they taking advantage of you just doing what they asked. I would definately question them doing this test without getting your permission or your doctors to do so first.
2007-03-16 16:11:45 · answer #1 · answered by like to help 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Start by calling the number on the billing form(there is always one) and ask to speak to a customer service rep. Make sure that you get a name and write it down along with he date and the time. Keep note of the conversation and the result. Meaning, were you charged in error, did they charge you more because the doctor ordered more tests off the blood drawn (this happens) or did they charge you because they screwed up and has to rerun the tests. If it was the later then and only then can you refuse to pay the bill. Then you send a formal refusal in writing, via certified mail-return receipt requested and make sure that you include the information that you gathered during your phone call. Hopefully that will be the end of it. I would also give a 'heads-up' to the insurance company if your using one.
2007-03-16 15:55:23 · answer #2 · answered by wezy53154 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It isn't their fault that the lab doing the tests has to have more money to do more testing than previous thought you would have to have.
Apparently the first testing that they did didn't find what they are looking for and there is a need to search further.
Labs tests are charged for according to what blood work they do and to try and get out of paying for the additional tests is not right.
Because of all of the medical law suits for malpractice,Dr's have to be careful and cover every base to avoid someone coming back and saying "you didn't do what I came to you for".
Apparentaly you needed to find out something and if they didn't find what they were looking for with the first test then they need to do the other tests regardless of the cost.
If $37.00 is all you have to pay for either blood test,you are lucky. Most lab tests cost a minimum of $100.00 and usually more.
Call and see what the need is for the additonal testing before you refuse to pay.
2007-03-16 15:06:07 · answer #3 · answered by Just Q 6 · 0⤊ 2⤋
Before you start the blame-game......you should call and find out what this is about. Contact the lab supervisor or the company billing department. It could just be a mistake. Before you get upset and talk about not paying, you need to find out the facts.
2007-03-16 14:24:32 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 2⤋
I would call the lab and ask about it.
2007-03-16 14:23:30 · answer #5 · answered by rustybones 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋