Understanding Unexpected Medical Billing: My Experience with Molina Healthcare
Recently, I received a letter from Molina Healthcare titled “This Is Not a Bill.” Initially, I thought it might be a routine notification, but upon reading further, I was taken aback. The communication detailed a charge of $650 for a brief virtual consultation with a healthcare provider—lasting between five to ten minutes—that the insurance company had declined to cover.
This situation has left me quite confused and concerned. The appointment was out-of-network, which might explain some coverage issues, but the amount billed seems extraordinarily high for such a short interaction. My reason for seeking the consultation was straightforward: I wanted to discuss symptoms of chest and head tightness. However, the provider’s advice was simply to follow up with my primary care physician.
Given the significant cost and the denial of coverage, I am seeking insights from others who might have faced similar situations. How can such a brief and seemingly simple consultation result in such a substantial bill? Is this common with out-of-network virtual visits? Any advice or guidance on how to navigate this billing issue would be greatly appreciated.
