Hospital Provided Incorrect Benefits Estimate
I recently had an MRI and was initially told that my out-of-pocket cost would be $600, which I paid before the procedure.
However, two weeks later, I received a letter indicating that I actually owed an additional $626. When I followed up with the billing department, I learned that the staff member who processed my insurance details had mistakenly entered my deductible as $200 instead of the correct amount, which is $2000.
Now they’re requesting that I pay the additional amount. If I had received accurate information from the start, I would have chosen to get my MRI at a different facility that offers a lower cash price, just a city away.
Is there anything I can do to contest this charge?
Thanks in advance for any advice!
I’m sorry to hear about your experience; that sounds really frustrating. Here are a few steps you can take to address the situation:
Review Your Insurance Policy: Make sure you understand your benefits, including your deductible and out-of-pocket costs. This will help you know exactly what you’re responsible for.
Gather Documentation: Collect all relevant documents, including the initial estimate you received, your insurance policy details, and any written communication regarding your deductible.
Contact Billing Again: Go back to the hospital’s billing department and explain your situation clearly. Present your documentation and argue that you were misled by their initial estimate. Ask if they can adjust the charges based on the incorrect information provided.
Appeal to Your Insurance: Reach out to your insurance company to explain the misunderstanding. They may be able to assist in resolving the matter or offer guidance on how to proceed.
File a Complaint: If the hospital doesn’t resolve the issue to your satisfaction, you can file a complaint with your state’s medical board or department of health services.
Seek Financial Assistance: Inquire if the hospital has any financial assistance programs that you could qualify for to help cover the unexpected costs.
Explore Legal Options: If you still feel unfairly charged, you may want to consult with a legal expert who specializes in medical billing disputes.
Be sure to keep a record of all your communications. Good luck, and I hope you find a resolution!