Lowering your healthcare costs could be as simple as picking up the phone and talking to your provider’s billing office. There is a method to it, but learning some basic negotiation skills can really help you keep some of your cash in your wallet.

There are several ways you can accomplish this. You can question possible errors, request a reduced cost, inquire about any programs for financial aid, and even appeal your insurer’s decision.

Negotiation is not a foreign practice for healthcare providers’ billing offices. The truth is, they do it pretty regularly. They just don’t publicize it. If you or your family has a medical bill that is too high, don’t hesitate to ask for a discount or reduction in cost. Here’s what you need to know.

Methods for Reducing Healthcare Costs

There are several approaches you can take when trying to reduce your healthcare costs. Typically, you will have more than one method so make sure that you cover all of your bases.

If you need to reduce your medical bills, try these strategies.

• Question possible errors – Everyone makes mistakes. When you receive your bill, examine it carefully. If you see any discrepancies or things that just don’t look quite right, raise those questions. You can also request a review of your bill to see if any errors were made even if you don’t see any potential errors.
• Request a reduced rate - Check around. See what the average cost is at other facilities for a similar procedure. If it is lower, that could give you some leverage to lower your rate. If the cost would present a financial hardship for you, explain that in detail. Be as direct and upfront as possible so that they understand your current situation and the negative impact that medical debt will have on you.
• Ask about financial aid – Many healthcare networks and hospitals have financial aid programs for patients who meet certain criteria. Ask if your provider has such a program and apply for it.
• Apply for Medicaid. The Medicaid is state run but complies with certain federal requirements. Each state has different rules for their programs so check with your state’s Medicaid office to see if you qualify.
• Ask for a payment plan. If your bill is too large for you to handle at once, but manageable if paid over time, request a payment plan. Most medical billing offices will work with patients to find a reasonable plan that allows them to pay over time without any negative impact on their credit report or financial standing with the office. This means they can continue to see their providers and receive treatment even though the bill is not fully paid yet.
• Appeal your insurer’s decision. If your insurance denies your claim and you have the procedure or treatment, this can leave you with a significant bill that you have to pay out of pocket. If that happens, don’t hesitate to appeal the claim denial if you think it isn’t correct. Sometimes a claim is denied because of a technicality that you may be able to overcome. Review your coverage and don’t be afraid to fight for what you need.

7 Steps for Negotiating Medical Bills

Negotiating your medical bills may take some time and a little work, but it is worth it if the result is a decreased payment or a more reasonable payment. Take these steps to negotiate your bill.

1. Request an itemized bill
2. Ask your insurer for an Explanation of Benefits (EOB)
3. Request your hospital’s or network’s Financial Assistance Policy
4. Ask about any discounts that may be available
5. Request that your fee be reduced
6. See if you are eligible to receive Medicaid
7. Ask about a payment plan

Tips for Effective Negotiation

These tips for effective negotiation will make the process much easier and more successful.

• Make it very clear that the current amount of your bill presents a significant hardship for you.
• Convey that you are willing to pay your bill to the best of your ability
• Document everything. Keep a record of every call, conversation, and correspondence (mail, email, text, etc.). For phone calls and in person meetings, write down the date and time, where the conversation took place, who you talked to, and the content of the communication. Do it as soon as possible, while it is still fresh in your mind.
• Yes, it’s often frustrating, but be polite (even if they are not)
• Be persistent
• Don’t be afraid to escalate the conversation if you need to (everyone has a boss)
• Don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you have a family member who can advocate for you, don’t be afraid to enlist their help. Some healthcare systems have patient advocates who can help with these matters as well.

Don’t be Afraid to Ask for Help

There are organizations out there that can help you with legal matters, and other issues. Some even have advocates who can help you negotiate or negotiate on your behalf. Check with your local Council on Aging and other state and local programs.

Be wary of businesses or organizations that offer this type of help for a fee. Your local Council on Again can direct you to voluntary organizations that are reputable and honest.

Negotiating your medical bills may seem a little intimidating, but you can do it. It is worth it if it helps to keep you from plunging into debt. You can often avoid the worry and stress that medical debt causes with a little negotiating and that alone makes it invaluable.