If you come to find yourself swimming in medical debt, you shouldn’t hesitate to learn more about the steps you can take to find relief.
Many people assume that they have to pay their medical bills in full. They don’t understand that they can negotiate, all with the idea of saving money along the way.
If you’re ready to negotiate your medical bills, here are a few steps you need to take:
- Search for common billing errors: If you find something wrong with the bill, it’s much easier to save money, as you have a reason to ask for a better price. It can take some time to review all your medical bills, but it’s well worth it in the end.
- Ask about discounts: Rather than assume you have to pay in full, call the appropriate party to ask if you qualify for a discount. Even if you don’t, you never know until you ask.
- Visit the billing department in person: You aren’t doing so with the idea of making anyone uncomfortable. Instead, you’re taking this step because a more personal conversation has a way of working in your favor.
- Always be polite: As frustrated as you may be with your medical bills, you should always remain polite and respectful throughout the process.
Along with the above, don’t let one “no” stop you from pushing forward. If one person can’t help, ask for a supervisor.
If all else fails and you come to find that your medical debt is dragging you down, it may be time to consider filing for bankruptcy.
Source: Time, “7 Smart Ways to Negotiate Your Medical Bills,” accessed June 01, 2018