This article is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Talk with a qualified healthcare professional about your personal health situation.
Medical costs can be confusing because one procedure may involve several separate bills. You may receive bills from the doctor, facility, lab, anesthesiologist, radiology group, pharmacy, or other providers.
Start with your insurance company
- Is this provider in-network?
- Is this facility in-network?
- Is the service covered?
- Do I need prior authorization?
- What is my deductible, coinsurance, copay, and out-of-pocket maximum?
Ask the provider’s office
Ask for billing codes, diagnosis codes, location, outside providers, insurance verification, and a written estimate when possible.
Watch for separate bills
Ask whether anesthesia, radiology, pathology, lab work, assistant surgeon, facility fee, equipment, or medications may be billed separately.
If you are uninsured or paying cash
Ask about self-pay rates, financial assistance, payment plans, and discounts for paying in advance.