Tips to Avoid Your Medical Bills from Hitting Collections
If you’ve been sick, chances are you’ve received an influx of medical bills. At times it may seem overwhelming, but there are options to avoid and take control of medical debt.
Tip 1: Take a deep breath and open your bills. It may seem tempting to toss them aside but that’s one of the worst things you can do. Ignoring the bill may postpone immediate stress but will be more harmful in the long run.
Tip 2: Read the details. Don’t just look at your medical bills; review your Explanation of Benefits too. By carefully reviewing each line item you can ensure that you weren’t overcharged, charged more than once, or charged for a service you did not receive. By being thorough, you can weed out potential errors and stay in control.
Tip 3: Talk to your healthcare providers. Many providers offer assistance in resolving bills if you ask. Options range anywhere from financial assistance to extending payment plans. By opening up a line of communication, you’ll be better able to explore your options.
Tip 4: Negotiate. You can negotiate the cost down with your provider, especially if you don’t have insurance. You can ask for lower rates on your medical procedures at the time of service. You also may be able to request a payment plan.
Tip 5: Be proactive. Often times medical bills do not arrive right away. This can happen for a number of reasons including waiting on a response from your insurance company to regular delays in a hospital billing office.
Tip 6: Ask for a Lump Sum Discount. If you are able to pay the total amount up front, you may be allowed a discount. Ask you provider is this is an option they offer.
Tip 7: Get familiar with Charity Care. Charity Care (also known as uncompensated care) is health care provided for free or reduced rates for low income patients. Your provider should be able to give you more information on this option.
Tip 8: Stay organized. Keep track of the doctors you see, as well as the departments within the hospital you visit. Even if you are treated at the same hospital, bills will often come from each department. Keep good notes and you’ll be able to better sort out your bills when you come in.
