All patients should familiarize themselves with the terms of their insurance coverage. This will help you understand the hospital's billing procedures and charges.

If there is a question about your insurance coverage, a member of the Business Services Department will contact you or a member of your family while you are here regarding information needed in order to process your claims.

If You Have Health Insurance

We will need a copy of your identification card. We also may need the insurance forms which are supplied by your employer or the insurance company. You will be asked to assign benefits from the insurance company directly to the hospital.

If You Are a Member of an HMO or PPO

Your plan may have special requirements, such as a second surgical opinion or pre-certification for certain tests or procedures. It is your responsibility to make sure the requirements of your plan have been met. If your plan's requirements are not followed, you may be financially responsible for all or part of the services rendered in the hospital. Some physician specialists may not participate in your healthcare plan and their services may not be covered.

If You Are Covered by Medicare

We will need a copy of your Medicare card to verify eligibility and process your Medicare claim. You should be aware that the Medicare program specifically excludes payment for certain items and services, such as cosmetic surgery, some oral surgery procedures, personal comfort items, hearing evaluations and others. Deductibles and co-payments also are the responsibility of the patient.

If You Are Covered by Medicaid

We will need a copy of your Medicaid card. Medicaid also has payment limitations on a number of services an items. Medicaid does not pay for the cost of a private room unless medically necessary.

If You Have No Insurance

A representative form the Business Services Department will discuss financial arrangements with you. A hospital representative is available to assist you in applying for Medicaid or other government assistance programs. Call 553-6181 for assistance.

Your Hospital Bill

The hospital will submit bills to your insurance company and will do everything possible to expedite your claim. But you should remember that your policy is a contract between you and your insurance company and you have the final responsibility for payment of your hospital bill. We have several payment options available to assist you in paying your bill.

Your bill reflects all of the services you receive during your stay. Charges fall into two categories: a basic daily rate, which includes your room, meals, nursing care, housekeeping, telephone and television; and charges for special services which include items your physician orders for you, such as x-rays or laboratory tests.

If you have certain test or treatments in the hospital, you may receive bills from physicians you did not see in person. These bills are for professional services rendered by these doctors in diagnosing and interpreting test results while you were a patient. Radiologists, cardiologists, anesthesiologists and other specialists perform these services and are required to submit separate bills. If you have questions about these bills, please call the number printed on the statement you receive form them.