We all want to pay our bills and behave as responsible adults, right? Of course we do. But take a moment to research the issue before you give up the cash. Here's why:
You're almost certain that your insurance plan covers, and therefore, should have paid for your doctor's visit. Yet, you have a bill from your doctor's office in hand, and there is no mention of your insurance plan's contribution to any part of the expense!
"What the... ?" It's okay to panic for 2 seconds, but the next reaction should be a call to your insurance plan. Confirm that your visit is covered, and request the confirmation in writing. There is a possibility that your particular claim was submitted with errors, and subsequently denied. Instead of correcting and resubmitting the claim to your health plan for payment, perhaps it was easier to just forward the bill to YOU!
Save yourself some grief by becoming very familiar with your health plan's EOB or Explanation of Benefits; this document will usually state "This is not a bill," across the top of the page. An EOB will show dates of service, diagnoses, how each diagnosis was treated, AND the amount your doctor was paid. EOB's are your best friends, so keep track of them; BFF's for life!
Besides, you've paid enough for the coverage you have! It's not your job to pay for someone else's errors, too ;-)
Don't be afraid to ask about their billing practices, and remember to come back and see me soon!
Thanks for stopping by!
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