The American health system is notoriously evil; hospitals grossly overcharge their patients thousands of dollars and many physicians charge rates two to three times the average for a common physical checkup. In today’s modern society, it is imperative you fully look over your hospital bill to avoid being taken advantage of and save hundreds, even thousands, of dollars per visit.
The past several years, news agencies have been investigating hospitals and how their billing system works, ultimately discovering horrible, deliberate overcharges. Depending upon your insurance coverage, you may have to pay as little as 5% or as high as 75% of your hospital bill, but either way, you should review the bill and do your research. To ensure you are not being taken advantage of, you should compare hospitals around you and review your insurance coverage.
Compare Hospitals
Just like you can do comparison shopping between supermarkets, you can do comparison shopping for hospitals. Obviously, you will likely not have time to do this when you have a child with a broken leg or severe fever, so you must plan ahead. The next time you have a moment free, look at the hospitals in close proximity to you and compare their rates, services, and professionals on staff. Just like a typical corporation, hospitals have help and call centers, so call the non-emergency number and ask for the estimated cost of a procedure at all potential hospitals. Once you have this information, carefully review the statements you received and begin to draw up the pros and cons of each care center.
Check Insurance Coverage
In addition to comparison shopping, pitting the hospitals against one another, you should review your insurance type and coverage to ensure the hospital you have selected is covered. For all insurance coverages, there will be a list of hospitals that are covered, potentially saving you thousands and relieving you from the insane hospital bills to pay on your own.
It is important to note that you have insurance for a reason: so use it when you need to. An emergency is an emergency no matter how you spin it, and you and your family’s health should outweigh any costs you may face later. If you have any questions or would like to get in touch with one of you agents at Brazelton Insurance Group, feel free to contact us at any time.