Why am I getting two bills for the same doctor’s visit?
The Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) and University medical Associates (UMA) are considered “provider based” by the federal government. This means the provider, MUSC Medical Center, owns the space where the doctor works. When you go to a UMA doctor, you will be seen in a MUSC outpatient hospital clinic. As a result of this, you will receive two bills for the care you receive. One bill will come from MUSC for the facility, supplies, medicines, or nursing care. One bill will come from UMA for the doctor’s fee. Why am I getting billed for two co-payments?
Many insurance plans pay for health care services provided in an outpatient hospital clinic differently than those provided in a doctor’s office. Your insurance plan may require you to meet your annual deductible before it pays fore healthcare services you receive in an outpatient hospital clinic. Your insurance company may also require you to pay a percentage of the bill, called a co-insurance, rather than just an office co-payment. Why am I getting another bill since I paid my co-pay to the doctor?
Payments are usually collected at the time of service for the physician's bill. Please use your receipt or cancelled check to verify the endorsement, UMA or MUHA.
Why can't all of my hospital bills be put on one statement?
We can usually accommodate this request, unfortunately we must rely on our patients to assist us with this. Our system cannot automatically combine accounts. If you will contact our customer service line, they can assist in getting this done for you. Why am I being billed when I have a Medicare supplement?
Most Medigap or Medicare Supplements do not cover services that are not paid by Medicare. Please refer to your policy information or contact your supplemental carrier for an explanation of benefits. Why am I being billed when I have insurance?
The balance may be for a co-insurance payment, deductible, or an out of pocket expense (an expense not covered by your insurance provider). If you have a question about why your insurance did not pay a portion of your claim, you should contact your insurance company directly. Some insurance carriers also provide information on your insurance coverage.
| NEED HELP UNDERSTANDING THE LANGUAGE OF MEDICAL BILLING |  Patient Glossary of billing terms
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Information courtesy of the Patient Friendly Billing® Project see below:
The PATIENT FRIENDLY BILLING® project is a nationwide initiative to make financial communications to patients clear, concise, and correct. The Healthcare Financial Management Association (HFMA) leads the initiative, in partnership with the American Hospital Association (AHA), the Medical Group Management Association, and other leading provider, consulting, and technology organizations. Sign on to support the PATIENT FRIENDLY BILLING® Project.
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If I have questions regarding my bill, who can I call?
If you have questions regarding your hospital bill, please contact our Customer Service Representatives at 843-792-2311 or 1-800-598-0624.Our Customer Service Representatives are available Monday-Friday, 9:00am – 4:30pm. I do not have health insurance and can not afford to pay my bill all at once. What are my options for payment?
MUSC will work with you to set up a payment plan. Please call our Customer Service Representatives at 843-792-2311 or 1-800-598-0624 to discuss your options. |
