What do I do if I disagree with how much my insurance company has paid on my bill?

If you have questions regarding the payment, call your insurance company for an explanation of the payment. If the insurance company finds that an error was made, note the information and whom you talked to at the insurance company. Request an anticipated payment date and ask if they need anything to complete processing. If the insurance company feels the bill was paid correctly and you still disagree, find out from the insurance company what you need to do to file an "appeal" with them. Filing an appeal will not guarantee that the insurance company will pay more on your bill, but the claim will be reviewed for reconsideration.

What is a deductible or co-payment?

A deductible is the initial amount that you must pay before your insurance plan begins to pay for your bills. Typically, a deductible is a flat dollar amount (e.g. $250 or $500). If you have a $250 deductible, you insurance company should pay all of the covered charges EXCEPT the first $250, which is your responsibility to pay. A co-payment (or co-insurance, as it is often referred as) is a flat amount paid for each visit to a provider. If you have a $50 hospital co-payment, you must pay $50 for each visit and your insurance company will pay for the remaining balance on all covered services.

Will the hospital file my Worker's Compensation claims for me?

Yes, as a courtesy we will bill worker's compensation insurance if you as the patient provide the correct information, including the claim number.

Why do I get a bill when Worker's Compensation or Motor Vehicle Insurance should pay for the services provided?

To ensure your charges get filed to the appropriate payor, please be sure to provide the worker's compensation or car insurance claim number when you register. You must complete your workers' compensation or auto insurance company's required paperwork in order for your claim to be processed. Once we have the required claim number, we will bill the worker's compensation or car insurance company.

What if I don't have health insurance?

Be assured that emergency services will never be delayed or withheld on the basis of a patient's ability to pay. If you do not have health insurance you may be eligible for Medicare, Medicaid or our Charity Care program. We also have a prompt pay discount. Please call the Business Office at 913-367-2131 for additional information.

Does Atchison Hospital bill secondary insurances?

Yes. The hospital is dedicated to helping you receive full benefits from your insurance company. You will be asked to provide complete insurance information upon registration. Be sure to bring all your insurance cards with you. As a service to you, we will submit secondary claims along with required Explanation of Benefits (EOB) to your insurance provider.

Can I find out how much my emergency room service will cost and if my medical insurance will cover the visit before seeing the doctor?

When someone comes to the Emergency Room, it is implied that they have a medical emergency. Specific regulations require that Emergency Room Clinicians first see the patient before we can discuss any financial questions. We understand that this restriction can be frustrating. However, the regulations are there to ensure everyone who comes to the Emergency Room will be seen regardless of their ability to pay.

I have coverage under both my insurance and my husband's. Since the deductible is less under his insurance, can you bill his insurance and not mine? 

Unfortunately, under a provision called coordination of benefits, the hospital is required to bill the insurance that would be considered primary for you. Any health insurance for which you are the primary holder must be billed before any other health insurance.

Who will bill my insurance?

As a courtesy, Atchison Hospital will bill your health insurance company on your behalf. If you have changed insurance companies, contact us as soon as possible so we may change the information on file and bill the account correctly. If your health insurance coverage is through Medicare or Medicaid you may not receive a bill. If your bill is denied or your insurance company determines that a portion of the bill is patient responsibility, you will receive a bill.

How will I know if my insurance company has paid my bill?

If there is a balance due from you after the insurance company has paid its portion, we will send you a statement. This statement indicates the amount that has been paid and any balance you are required to pay. You are required to pay this bill in full or set up payment arrangements by contacting PMD at 1-800-777-8645.