Your Guide to Managing Medical Bills in Collections

Your medical bills have been sent to collections. What do you do now? It’s a situation that countless Americans face each year. The burden of medical debt can be overwhelming, but there are steps you can take to manage it effectively.

First, validate and verify your debt. Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), collectors must provide specific information about your debt within five days of contacting you. This includes the amount owed, the original creditor, and other key details. If you haven’t received this information, request it promptly. Once you have it, dispute any inaccuracies to halt collection activities temporarily.

Next, consider controlling how collectors contact you. The FDCPA allows you to demand communication only in writing. This can reduce your stress and create a documented trail of correspondence. Send them a certified letter with your request to ensure they comply.

Verify whether your insurance has already covered the debt. Mistakes do happen, and sometimes hospitals send bills to collections even after insurance payments. Contact both your insurance company and the hospital to clarify the outstanding balance.

Negotiation is another powerful tool. Many hospitals and collections agencies are willing to negotiate debts. Approach the hospital first. If they can’t help, negotiate directly with the collections agency. Write down all interactions and follow up consistently.

If negotiations stall, consulting a Consumer Protection Attorney can be beneficial. They can guide you through state-specific consumer laws, ensuring collectors are acting within legal bounds. Many attorneys offer free consultations to assess your case.

Finally, consider hiring a medical billing advocate. These professionals specialize in disputing and negotiating medical bills. They scrutinize bills for errors, verify insurance benefits, and negotiate on your behalf. Choose an advocate who excels in negotiations to maximize potential savings.

We understand the complexities of dealing with medical collections. We offer guidance and support, ensuring you navigate these challenges effectively. Let us help you regain control over your financial health.