Nearly half of insured Americans are finding out that their medical bills come with a litany of unexpected expenses.
A recent survey by the Commonwealth Fund shows that many folks with health insurance are still getting hit with unexpected costs that rival a small wedding budget.
And a majority don’t contest billing errors or denial of coverage by their insurance.
More than 7,800 adults were surveyed nationwide, and 45% say they were billed for services they thought should have been covered.
Yet fewer than half who reported billing errors or denied coverage challenged the insurance company -- many because they did not know they had the right to do so.
The survey also showcases that these surprise expenses really throw a monkey wrench in people’s finances.
Some patients are so spooked by the possibility of unexpected bills that they’re avoiding necessary medical care.
So how can you keep better track of what medical bills you need to pay and what to challenge?
Call both your doctor’s office and your insurance provider for clarification. That way you can see if the bills you received align with what you should be charged.
If something doesn’t add up, call your insurance provider to dispute a bill.
More than a third who disputed medical bills had their balances reduced or eliminated.
Lastly, hold the insurers accountable. Half of those who challenged being denied coverage succeeded in getting services approved.