How to avoid unexpected medical bills and fight back against overcharges that could put you in debt
When you go to a doctor, you trust their expertise and their intentions. But sometimes, a simple inspection can turn into a financial nightmare, with unexpected inspections and sky-high bills leaving you deep in debt.
Medical debt is a crisis in the United States, with Americans owing as much as $220 billion by 2024, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF).
Even with insurance, a routine doctor’s visit can result in thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket costs. About 14 million people owe more than $1,000 in medical bills. So, knowing your rights and taking proactive steps can protect your health and your wallet.
Being proactive is the best way to avoid overly expensive medical bills. However, if you can no longer afford medical care, there are things you can do.
this No accidentEffective in early 2022, protects you from unexpected bills for emergency services and certain non-emergency services. Generally, you are not responsible for out-of-network charges when you receive emergency treatment or certain other services.
if you believe No accident has been violated, please file a complaint with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services or call Unsurprising service desk Phone: 1-800-985-3059.
If your bill doesn’t fall within the following ranges No accidentask for a detailed bill before paying. A 2022 KFF study found that 43% of adults reported receiving a medical or dental bill that they believed had an error.
Compare the bill to the Explanation of Benefits (EOB) provided by your insurance company. The EOB outlines what your insurance company covers and any remaining balance you owe. You can usually access your EOB online through your insurance company’s website or app. If there is a discrepancy, contact the provider and your insurance company to resolve it.
If you end up having to pay large medical bills, you still have options. A 2024 study in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that nearly 62% of people who asked for reductions in unaffordable medical bills were successful, while 74% of people who disputed incorrect bills were corrected.
It is also a good idea to find a patient advocate to negotiate medical bills on your behalf. Some employers offer this benefit to their employees.
