I am a Mum of 2 and I completely forgot about a doctors appointment I had. They did call me the day before & remind me but for some reason it just completely slipped my mind on the day. I got a bill in the mail 2 days later for $90 stating failure to attend. Is that legal?
2007-07-05 16:46:11 · 9 answers · asked by JulesCts 1 in Health ➔ Other - Health
Legally they have to inform you with a written statement and usually this is given to you on your first visit and you sign the agreement. New patients can not be billed. If you can't remember signing an acknowledgement of this, ask them to mail you a copy. If they don't have it on file, they must remove the charge. You can dispute it and refuse to pay it even if they turn you into collections, just be sure to do it in writing and certify mailing. If you signed the agreement, you need to pay.
2007-07-05 16:58:35 · answer #1 · answered by debijs 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
There is no federal prohibition against charging patients for missed appointments. Moreover, the AMA states that it is ethical for physicians to charge for missed appointments, or for appointments not canceled at least 24 hours in advance, if patients are fully advised of the possibility of such charges.
2007-07-05 16:53:57 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Bravo Deb, very good advice!!
Yes. You must call ahead to change the appointment.
I was caught in an ice storm once, and was forgiven
only because the doctors office had to close also!
In some places they even charge for missed sun tanning
appointments!
2007-07-05 17:01:45 · answer #3 · answered by V B 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Here in Canada, no, but patients need let them know ahead of time if not coming in, so they can fit someone else in the appointment slot.
2007-07-05 16:54:52 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yep alot of places charge a visit cost even if you don't show, most places don't out of courtesy and they want to keep you as a patient but alot do. Good luck.
2007-07-05 16:49:27 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes sadly enough. If you dont pay in a timely fashion..the acct will be turned over to collections.
2007-07-05 16:50:20 · answer #6 · answered by Quasi 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It depends on the state laws, type of insurence ect. But if they do i would leave that type of health care.
2007-07-05 16:49:36 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
My mom's a therapist, and she has charged people for not showing up. Mostly because you wasted their time, and because showing up is best for you.
2007-07-05 17:07:02 · answer #8 · answered by Jay 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
unfortunately, it is. you've slotted their time and kept them from scheduling another paying customer. most of them will allow a 1 time grace miss but, they don't have to. i know, it sucks
2007-07-05 16:56:49 · answer #9 · answered by maryk 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋