Just because you have insurance does not mean that you are exempt from the responsibility of paying the bill. I would suggest that when you get your second statement from your medical provider, you call your insurance co. to find out why they have not paid the claim. They may tell you that there is no claim on file, or that they need more information. In any event, you should call your medical provider and let them know what is happening with your insurance.
Be sure to take your insurance card with you when you go to the doctor or to the hospital, so that they have your current information. Also, take along your medications, or a list of them, including the strengths and directions for your medications.
Even with insurance, you are responsible for what your insurance does not pay. If you happen to have a secondary insurance, they may not pay any additional money than what your primary insurance paid and you may be responsible for the balance of your bill.
Many insurance firms do not pay more than what Medicare pays, and the patient owes the balance. Many people feel that it is the provider's job to see that they are paid, but it is ultimately the patient's responsibility, and if not paid, can be turned over to collections.
Most health providers are willing to work with you to make arrangements for payment. If your secondary insurance is not paying any of the bill, you might want to look into a different company.
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Copyright © 2002 The Kenton County Observer
Last modified: March 07, 2002