7 tips on cutting medical bills

Research into medical billing has revealed that it is possible to drastically and immediately cut medical expenses not covered by medical insurance plans. www.BestHealthcareRates.com, a knowledgeable leader in the online medical insurance field, has collected the 7 best tips to help individuals pay off medical bills quicker by first reducing them to more manageable levels.

1. Individuals must research the true cost of the procedure. There are multiple websites, such as, Healthcare Blue Book that will provide such information. By knowing how much of a discount to expect the consumer is best prepared to negotiate and will not undercut himself.

2. Patients or their representatives must confidently state the case. They must tell why they have to pay out of pocket and should get personal. It is useful to offer upfront payment in exchange for a discount. They should also ask about financial assistance programs.

3. Consumers need to inquire about outpatient procedures. Often procedures that require a one-night hospitalization can also be done on an outpatient basis, saving patients a large amount.

4. Those attempting to deal with a billing department should try negotiating after the procedure. Many people report success when they ask to pay a percentage and have the rest of the bill forgiven. Even if the billing department refuses the request, chances of getting a discount are much higher.

5. Consumers should always avoid using credit cards to pay hospital bills. When credit cards are used, hospital billing departments are led to believe that the individual could simply charge the bill and they will not negotiate further.

6. Patients who are struggling financially with a bill must ask about installment plans. Many hospitals will give an interest-free agreement for repayment of medical bills.

7. It is advised to seek professional help when other tactics have failed. Getting a third person involved in the case will facilitate obtaining the best terms possible. Patients must seek out a professional who is used to dealing with hospitals.

Tom Carolan of www.BestHealthcareRates.com states, “Consumers need to use confidence when dealing with medical care providers and their billing companies. Most are willing to deal on bills, because they realize that some of the money is better than none of it.” Consumers can significantly save themselves money by applying insider tips on cutting medical bills.