| Q. |
When does South Coast Medical
Center (SCMC) bill my health plan? |
| A. |
We like to bill health plans
five days after a patient discharges. However, sometimes we
have to hold the billing process until your physician has
completed and updated your medical chart for your visit/stay
at the hospital. |
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|
| Q. |
Does SCMC accounting department
handle physician billing? |
| A. |
No, physicians do their own billing.
SCMC bills for all facility services…such as radiology,
lab, physical therapy, outpatient services and ER. |
| |
|
| Q. |
What is the timeframe for the
patient's liability of the bill? |
| A. |
The timeframe is 120 days from the
date of discharge for cash account, and 30 days for cash after
health plan payment date. During the 120-day time period, you
have the option to set up a payment arrangement. Contact our
business office at (949) 499-7155 for information. |
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|
| Q. |
What is a bad debt account? |
| A. |
This is an account that SCMC
sends to a collection agency for further follow-up. A collection
agency is notified after 120 days when:
- No payment has been received for hospital services
- No contact by the patient
- Mail is returned
|
| |
|
| Q. |
After an account goes into bad
debt, can I contact your office to set up a financial arrangement? |
| A. |
We can provide assistance with financial
arrangements. Please call our office at (949) 499-7155. |
| |
|
| Q. |
Is my billing information kept
confidential? |
| A. |
Yes, without your written consent,
we will not provide any information related to your billing
to anyone — except for your health plan. |
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|
| Q. |
Do I receive a refund check back
when my health plan pays? |
| A. |
Yes, we process refund monies back
to you according to our hospital policy and procedures. |
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|
| Q. |
Do I need to notify the hospital
when I move? |
| A. |
Yes. In order to keep your current,
good standing status with us, we must be advised of any address
changes. |
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|
| Q. |
What do I do if I have a question
regarding the billing charges? |
| A. |
Please contact our office at (949)
499-7155 to request an audit of your account. |
| |
|
| Q. |
If I have a suggestion, concern
or recommendation regarding hospital services, whom do I call? |
| A. |
You can call our business office
at (949) 499-7155. |
