Question: I would like to know scale of what they do pay and do not pay.
From: Maria G. of Deerfield Beach, FL
Answer: Thank you for your question. It does not have a simple and direct answer but I will do my best to provide a framework of information. There are literally hundreds of insurance plans that fall within 3 main categories-public, private, and Managed Care plans. Each plan has its own specific coverage benefits. The amount that the insurance plan will cover may depend on whether the provider is in network or out-of-network and/or the amount of the deductible and co-pay of the plan. A provider that participates with the plan will accept a negotiated amount from the insurer and you are responsible for the coinsurance amount. A provider that does not participate with the plan is able to bill you what the plan does not pay. It is extremely important to study these details when choosing a plan and to know what your plan will/will not cover and whether your provider is a participating provider.



Ruthann Russo, PhD, JD, MPH, RHIT, is a healthcare expert with more than 20 years of experience working in and advising healthcare organizations.




