how to Save money on Hospital Bills

Having a medically complex child means frequent hospital visits, unexpected ER trips, and various procedures and treatments. While you may not have full control over medical flare-ups and your child's health, you can take control of the billing process to minimize errors and ensure you receive the services you truly need. Being smart, savvy, and informed is key!

Here are some tips to help save on those inevitable medical bills:

1. Ask for an Itemized Bill: Always request an itemized bill from the hospital. Check for any errors or unnecessary charges. Medical billing errors can occur, mistakes happen!

2. Compare Hospital Costs: Children's hospitals offer specialized pediatric care and can be pricier than regular hospitals. Keep this in mind when choosing where to go. Also, make sure your hospital of choice is connected to your insurance and it’s in-network.

3. Explore Payment Options: When it’s time to pay, ask about different payment options. Sometimes paying in cash gets you a discount, or you can split the bill into monthly payments (specify what suits your budget).

4. Use Reward Credit Cards: If you have to pay a large bill, use a credit card that gives you points or cashback. Might as well get some rewards while you’re at it!

5. Prioritize Medical Bills: Put off big expenses like vacations or renovations until medical bills are paid off. Keeping medical debt in check should be a priority, remember you have one year to pay off your medical bills, and then it goes to a collection agency.

6. Opt Out of Unnecessary Tests: If your child has already had certain tests (like a COVID test at home), let the ER know. You don’t need to pay for the same test twice! Most parents are very shy about speaking up and questioning the services being performed, but in fact it’s good to be proactive in this process. It will eliminate unnecessary billing.

7.) Indicate Secondary Insurance: If you have secondary insurance, do not assume the hospital is aware. You must clearly indicate and notify the administration when submitting paperwork. Additionally, specify which insurance is primary and which is secondary; the order is crucial for submitting claims accurately.

8.) Always Ask for a Receipt: Don't forget to keep evidence of all payments, including co-payments. This documentation can be crucial for reimbursement purposes. Always maintain a paper trail.