Going to the doctor can be time consuming. But if you prepare, it will be less stressful. Also, preparing for a doctor’s visit will help you become a responsible healthcare consumer. If you are prepared for your visit, you can ask questions about the future bill. You can also see if your primary insurance covers the visit.
Like any transaction, it’s vital that you do research before arriving for your appointment. Similar to when buying large furniture or a car, you will need to know how to pay for the visit in the end.
Step 1: Check Primary Carrier Insurance network
The first step before any health provider visit is to verify that your physician, urgent care office, lab location, hospital or other facility is listed as in-network on your plan each time you go to an appointment.
Related Post: ClaimLinx Glossary: Secondary Coverage
Insurance carriers can alter primary insurance networks at any point. That is why it is a best practice to check this information before every appointment.
To check if your doctor or facility is in-network, go to your primary insurance company’s website and use the “Find a Doctor” or “Find a Provider” tool. This tool’s location on the website will vary depending on the primary insurance company.
If you have any problems finding this tool, contact your primary insurance carrier. Find contact information on your primary insurance ID card.
Step 2: Verify Eligibility
There are also additional steps for preparation if you are visiting a facility or hospital for any procedure. You will need to check with your primary insurance carrier before the procedure to verify your eligibility and to find out if you will need any kind of prior authorization.
Some hospitals and physician offices will check this information before the visit, but that is becoming increasingly rare. It’s best to take full responsibility for this task, as it can directly affect your insurance coverage and therefore your final bill.
Related Post: Billing errors cost members and employers on services
Contact us
Please contact ClaimLinx by email at help@claimlinx.com or by phone at 800-858-1772 if you have additional questions on how to prepare for your office visit.