I started seeing my endocrinologist since dec..i was recommened his name by my bro who is a doc and i called the doc and told him i have one insurance which he doesn't accept.He called back saying that he is making a special request and started seeing me and we both assumed diffent things and he now gives me a bill for 2500....which i am supposed to pay according to my insurance rule and docs rule.But i wasn't aware of it and they weren't aware either.My insurance pays like may be 250 out of this and i have to pay the rest which is too much for me to handle.If i knew i would have opted out long before.We come from a different country and this is our first insurance use and we r living on onepay roll and my husband supports me for my studies which r very expensive.That leaves us with very little money for us.What can be done?please advice.
2007-07-27 03:25:49 · 5 answers · asked by crazyabs 1 in Business & Finance ➔ Insurance
As nice as it would be to have this written off as a professional courtesy, that's actually a violation of the HIPAA rules - they'd consider it discrimination. So, don't be surprised if they don't do it. (All they'd need is someone else to get wind of it and report them to the insurance company and then it's a big problem.)
HOWEVER, since he told you he would make a special request for you to be seen by him, then the very least he could do would be to cut you a break on the charges and reduce them because you're underinsured in this case. Then, set up a payment plan - even if you send them $20 a month. Otherwise, they're legally bound to keep billing you and eventually will send you to collections, which can screw up your credit.
2007-07-27 04:29:09 · answer #1 · answered by zippythejessi 7 · 0⤊ 4⤋
Most doctors offices will negotiate a lower rate for unisured patients. Call and speak with the billing department and explain your situation. Most are willing to accept some payment rather than no payment. Usually though, if they give you a large discount they expect payment right away. I would be sure to point out to them, in the nicest manner possible, this is partially their fault since the doc said he'd help you out.
Good Luck!
2007-07-27 10:39:49 · answer #2 · answered by Proud Mommy 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Personally, I believe the doctor should write off whatever insurance doesn't pay as a professional courtesy to your brother. Doctors do that for each other ALL THE TIME. There was obviously a misunderstanding between you and the doctor, and someone now needs to make it right. The doctor can afford to do so, at lot easier than you can.
2007-07-27 10:50:59 · answer #3 · answered by Christie 4 · 0⤊ 2⤋
Did you honestly think he was treating you for free? Call the phone # on the bill & make payment arangements...
2007-07-27 22:04:42 · answer #4 · answered by Custo 4 · 0⤊ 1⤋
discuss this with your doctors office billing. most places will negotiate because they would rather get some payment rather than nothing.
2007-07-27 10:34:49 · answer #5 · answered by audreyanddj 2 · 4⤊ 1⤋