Question: How to check your bill for errors at hospitals?
From: Bonnie B.
Answer: It is always wise to review your hospital bill. Although hospitals may do a “self audit” to check that services ordered were rendered and charged to the appropriate billing codes, errors do happen. If you or a family member feel you or your insurance company are being charged incorrectly, contact the hospital’s Patient Accounts Department. Insurance companies will also scrutinize the bill and may request a copy of the medical record to review for medical necessity and appropriate charges. Hospitals are wary of fraudulent behavior but you are also responsible. In some instances, incorrect information may have been given at registration so you should also make sure that insurance information is correct.



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




