You went to the hospital in the United States, and they charged you an arm and a leg. I have the secret formula to lower that bill from $10,000 to almost $0. What do you have to do? You must ask for an itemized bill to know exactly how much it costs to fix that finger or that injury.
They won't want to give it to you, even when you leave the hospital, because they will automatically lower your bill by half. You'll probably see lists on that bill for a Band-Aid for $100 or a medicine for $300, but you can fight it. You can call your accident attorney to help you get that bill down if you don't know.
You don't have to pay that bill.
Beyond asking for an itemized bill, there are several other strategies you can employ to lower a high hospital bill:
- Negotiate: Don't be afraid to negotiate with the hospital billing department. Many hospitals are willing to negotiate lower bills, especially if you can demonstrate financial hardship or offer to pay a lump sum upfront.
- Apply for financial assistance: Many hospitals offer financial assistance programs for patients who cannot afford their medical bills. These programs may provide discounts or full bill forgiveness based on your income and assets.
- Check for billing errors: Review your itemized bill carefully for any errors or discrepancies. Billing mistakes are common and could result in overcharging. If you find any errors, dispute them with the hospital's billing department.
- Explore payment plans: If you cannot pay your bill in full, inquire about setting up a payment plan. Many hospitals offer interest-free payment plans that allow you to pay off your bill over time in manageable installments.
- Seek assistance from a medical billing advocate: Medical billing advocates specialize in helping patients navigate the complexities of medical billing. They can review your bill, identify potential cost-saving opportunities, and negotiate with the hospital on your behalf.
By taking proactive steps and advocating for yourself, you can significantly reduce the financial burden of a high hospital bill.
Remember, if you're struggling to manage a high hospital bill or navigate the complexities of medical billing, you don't have to do it alone.
The Ward Law Group is here to help. If you're a victim of excessive medical billing, contact us today, and let us fight for your rights and financial well-being.
Jany Martinez Ward
Partner
Jany Martínez-Ward is a Founding and Managing Partner of The Ward Law Group, PL, a Florida law firm representing victims of car accidents. She focuses her practice on providing legal representation to Hispanic clients that have become injured in a car accident as a result of the negligence of others. In 2018, The National Trial Lawyers Association recognized Jany as one of the top attorneys in the state and among the top 40 under 40 attorneys.
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