Medbillo: frequently asked questions

It covers emergency care (including at out-of-network ERs), non-emergency care from out-of-network providers at an in-network hospital or surgery center - like anesthesiologists and radiologists - and air ambulances. In those cases you owe only your in-network cost-sharing. Ground ambulance isn't covered federally, though some states protect you.

Ask the provider's billing office, in writing, for an itemized statement with the CPT/HCPCS and revenue codes and the date of each service. Compare it line by line with your insurer's EOB. The letter does this for you.

If the bill is at least $400 more than the Good Faith Estimate from that provider, you can start the federal patient-provider dispute resolution process within 120 days of the bill. The provider can't send the bill to collections while the dispute is open.

Nonprofit hospitals must have a financial assistance policy and accept applications for at least 240 days after the first bill after discharge. Eligibility depends on income and the hospital's policy; many people above the poverty line still qualify for a discount.

The three credit bureaus don't report paid medical collections or medical collections under $500, and they wait a year before reporting new medical collections. Dispute errors in writing and ask the provider to hold the account while you do.

Your first set of letters each day is free. After that, $4 buys one case with 3 revisions. No subscription.