Answer 5: B
If you are uninsured, or you choose not to use your insurance, providers generally must give you a written Good Faith Estimate when you schedule care at least three business days ahead, or when you ask for one. A phone quote of “around $900” is not the same thing, so always ask for the estimate in writing.
If your bill is at least $400 more than the Good Faith Estimate from that provider, you can start a federal patient-provider dispute process. You generally must start it within 120 calendar days of the date on the bill, and there is a small fee that is refunded if the decision goes in your favor.
Tip: before booking, ask independent imaging centers and labs for their self-pay price. It is often far lower than a hospital’s.
Question 6 of 8: The hospital’s hidden program
You owe a nonprofit hospital $6,000 and money is tight. Which of these is true?
- A. Financial help is only for people with no income
- B. You can only apply before you receive care
- C. Nonprofit hospitals must have a written financial assistance policy, and you can often apply after you are billed
- D. Asking for help will hurt your credit score