Frequently Asked Billing Questions
 

My insurance takes care of this bill, doesn't it?
Professional services are charged directly to the patient or responsible party. He or she is personally responsible for payment. We will, however, be pleased to assist you in preparing and submitting your insurance claim. Please provide us with all necessary insurance information so that we can provide this service for you.

Well, exactly what does my insurance cover?
Unfortunately, there is a wide range of health plans with varying deductibles and varying coverages. We assist in the preparation of forms but cannot take responsibility for researching the exact coverage on your course of treatment. We do urge you to contact your insurance carrier to determine benefits and extent of coverage.

I was told my insurance pays 80%. Why did it pay only 50% of your bill?
Many times a carrier pays 80% of certain types of treatment based on their internal schedule of payment. Exactly how they determine such fixed fees often disagrees with fees being commonly charged in our medical community. You should check with your carrier to determine if they pay 80% of our fee or 80% of a value they have assigned. In this matter you can more properly plan for handling a balance due.

I am handling my hospital bill and don't see why I have to pay this separate doctor bill...
As private physicians providing services at the hospital our billing is separate from any fees billed by the hospital for use of their facilities or supplies.

Dr. Smith is my physician. Why am I getting a bill from you for a consult?
Your doctor called us in to consult on your diagnosis and treatment plan. Our area of expertise was required to afford you the best health treatment.

Can't I just wait until insurance has paid to see what my balance is and then pay you?
Insurance companies commonly take as long as 60 days to process claims and pay. We would ask that you call your carrier at 60 days if a claim is unpaid. As a courtesy, we will refile the claim one time. If the claim is still outstanding at 90 days, it is the patient's responsibility to pay the balance in full and follow up with the insurance company. We will provide you with one more itemized billing to file with your insurance company.

How will I know what my charges are and keep track of my account?
You will receive a monthly statement. If you have any questions when you receive your first monthly statement please call us at 442-3130 between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. and we will be happy to explain your statement to you.
 

©Copyright 2005: Columbus Oncology & Hematology Associates, Inc.