Information and Insight for Injured Iowans

5 Mistakes that Lead to Medical Debt

According to Access Project, a non-profit healthcare advocacy group, two-thirds of people who fall into medical debt have insurance. Why, then, are the insured at risk of plummeting into medical debt overnight? Medical debt often springs quickly on people in communities across the country who regrettably commit the following mistakes:

1.      You ignore your bills. Do not assume that doctors and hospitals will look the other way even if you no longer can afford to pay your bills.

2.      You do not look for errors within your bill. Do not presume that hospitals and insurance companies are perfect and never make mistakes. Request an itemized bill every time you are required to pay for any medical-related expenses.

3.      You do not negotiate the price down. Doctors and hospitals will, at times, negotiate alternative prices with you; remember that the amount on the bill is not always the final amount that you will be required to pay.

4.      You are too embarrassed to ask for financial assistance. Numerous organizations are willing to help with your medical finances, but you must seek them out. Also, browse the internet to find programs which help patients afford treatments for specific illnesses.

5.      You do not work out a payment plan. Similar to their willingness to negotiate prices, some doctors and hospitals will occasionally work out interest-free monthly payment plans. Be honest with your doctor and hospital about your financial situation, and ask them if they will accept a payment plan.

CNN.com