Take Care

Is This a Bill? Figuring Out Medical Paperwork, What to Pay and When | Ep. 1

• Melody • Episode 1

Share episode

The flood of paperwork after a doctor's visit or hospital stay can be incredibly stressful. How do you know what's a real bill versus just an update? Host Melody Mulaik walks through how to tell “Is this a bill?” So that you can figure out your medical paperwork, what to pay and when. 

She explains the difference between a "this is not a bill" notice and an actual bill, and walks you through the single most important step you must take before ever paying a provider: verifying the charge with your insurance company. Learn how to log into your insurer's portal, compare the provider's bill with your insurance company's processed claim, and feel confident that you're only paying what you truly owe.

Topics Covered with Timestamps:

  • [00:00:05] The stress and confusion caused by post-visit medical paperwork.
  • [00:00:55] What a "this is not a bill" notice really is and why you're receiving it.
  • [00:01:18] Why you should always review "not a bill" notices for accuracy.
  • [00:01:55] The transition from a notice to an actual bill and what it signifies.
  • [00:02:25] The crucial first step to take before paying any medical bill.
  • [00:02:45] How to use your insurance company's website to check claims.
  • [00:03:15] An example of how insurance payments are calculated (billed vs. allowed amounts).
  • [00:03:50] How to get the final validation you need to confidently pay your bill.

Key Takeaways:

  • A notice that says "this is not a bill" is for your information, showing you what the provider has billed your insurance company. You should review it to ensure the date and services are correct.
  • An actual bill means the provider has already communicated with your insurance company, which has determined your portion of the cost.
  • Before paying any bill, always log into your insurance company's website and compare the provider's bill to the processed claim information.
  • Your insurance portal will show you what the provider billed, what your insurer "allowed" based on their contract, what they paid, and what your remaining responsibility is.
  • If the amount on the bill matches the patient responsibility shown on your insurance company's website, you can pay it with confidence.

Practical Advice: 

When you receive a medical bill, do not pay it immediately. First, log in to your insurance company's online portal and find the corresponding claim for that date of service. Compare the amount the insurer says you owe with the amount on the bill. If they match, you can proceed with payment.

Resources Mentioned: