Question
What is the name of your state? TEXAS
Does anyone know of a resource for finding out typical physician fees for particular procedures in a particular area -- without literally calling a bunch of them?
My issue involves Emergency Physician fees -- and since they don't have regular offices, I can't exactly call around. I just want to confirm that my ER doctor's charges are the norm for the area.
Answer
If you are uninsured, a good place to start is Medicare's fee schedule. Medicare is Federal (nationwide), is largely impartial, and publishes their fees annually. Many physicians and PHOs use that fee schedule as a basis for negotiation with insurance companies and for self-pay patients.
That being said, if you do not have insurance, any provider can literally charge you ANYTHING they want. Negotiation BEFORE incurring the debt is key -- you can't wait for the bill and then expect them to cut it down for you. That would be like handing your checkbook to the car salesman as you drive off and telling them to fill in the amount of the car!
If you have already been treated (most likely, because it is an ER), then make an appointment to see the Billing Office of the hospital. Be polite and remember that you are asking them a FAVOR. Ask if they would accept Medicare's fee schedule for the services you received (they may want to tack on a percentage and that is fair, too). If not, ask for a payment plan. However, you can't have a reduction in the fee AND get a payment plan --so if they are willing to reduce, be prepared to pay the entire newly negotiated fee that day.
Finally, know that Emergency Department services are expensive. They operate 24 hours a day and must have equipment, staff, and medication to treat almost ANYTHING. If they provided you a service on short notice, they should be compensated.
Good luck.
Answer
Just a thought...meeting with the billing office at the hospital will only take care of the facility fees. Most ER Physician groups are independent contractors. Call the phone number on the Physician bill, or write to them and ask about negotiating payment.
Answer
You are absolutely right, Lealea. Thanks for adding that.
Unfortunately, I think the OP is still over a barrel...