High Medical Bills Help Is Just A Phone Call Away

By Kim Callwood, MD

The ability for people to payhigh medically related bills is getting more and more difficult and is a growing problem. The problem has grown to such a degree that high medical bills (despite having medical insurance) can result in some people having to file bankruptcy. According to a 2009 study, it is a contributing cause in 62% of personal bankruptcy filings. These exorbitant costs can throw any family budget into a tailspin.

Medical debt differs from other forms of consumer debt, as it usually results from something completely unpredictable an illness or injury. In addition, illness or injury often prevents a person from working and earning the income necessary to pay off the bills. Many American families are just one serious illness or injury away from bankruptcy.

What most people don't realize is that health insurance rarely helps. Surprisingly, nearly three-quarters of those filing for bankruptcy as a result of medical debt have health insurance. Most are middle-class, well-educated homeowners. Modern insurance policies have so many loopholes, co-payments and deductibles that a serious illness or injury can bankrupt even those insured. In 2010, one in five American families were having trouble paying off their medical debt, while 25% considered filing for bankruptcy.

Do you have large amounts of out-of-pocket expenses remaining on any unpaid medical bills relating to one incident? If so, a patient advocacy program may be right for you.

One such patient advocacy program is offered for no additional cost to members of the MD-Plus VIP plan. A patient advocate is someone who stays in close contact with you to assist in the reduction of your medical bills. The advocate will also work with you to find the best rates for medical procedures, prescriptions, and even medical equipment. Dealing with medical bills can be extremely difficult and time consuming; that's where a patient advocate steps in to help.

A patient advocate can

Assist in the reduction of medical bills

Find a doctor to ensure best rates for procedures/prescriptions and medical equipment

Provide prescription payment assistance

Locate medical supply wholesalers for chronically ill members

Verify claims are billed correctly

Re-submit claims for services rendered

Differentiate cash pay from insurance pay

Negotiate service fees according to state regulations and service pricing trends

Lump sum negotiation