Author: Kathy Ferguson
The New England journal of Medicine reported that 87% of Americans generate a yearly medical bill, 84% of those have incorrect billing. Consumers are getting over-charged for healthcare billing mistakes! A new study from academic researchers found that 66.5 percent of all bankruptcies were tied to medical issues – either because of high costs for care or time out of work.
CNN as well as the New York Times, including The Doctors recently reported on Carlsbad Medical Center suing patients for unpaid bills. Let’s talk about some of these patients. First, there is the woman who had the flu, went into the ER room, never saw a doctor, was given some medications and later received a bill for $6,000. Or the other woman whose car was reposessed and her paycheck garnished. Then, there was the widow, whose wife passed away from cancer….He received a bill for $43,000. These are only some of the stories being told by some of these and other patients, unable to pay, are over-billed, have no recourse or resources and are now having their wages garnished? Do any of these patients have assurance that their medical bill was correct?
One almost needs a “bull-dog” advocate to review, audit and assure an accurate bill. We need an advocate who understands the billing system, one who has the knowledge, experience and determination to get you the correct bill. In my next blog, I will talk about turning our medical billing system upside-down. We will review the importance of understanding your medical bill, your resources, your options, how to read a medical bill and much more.
Kathy Ferguson
Medical Debt Resolutions
505-307-9350
