Dental billing woes. What’s happening, and what can I do in this situation?
Today, on December 11th, 2023, I received a bill in the mail
On July 14th, 2023, I got an evaluation done at a dental office. It was fully covered by my insurance, so I didn’t have to pay anything. They wanted to schedule for a deep cleaning, and I asked for a document stating how much it will cost. I was given a treatment plan document that stated the services at the upcoming appointment will cost $172. We scheduled it for September 15th, 2023.
On the stapled-together papers, there was a spot that made me agree to the following:
“This is a treatment plan estimate based on the insurance information presented. This is not a guarantee of payment but an estimate of the benefits which may be available for the proposed services to be rendered. I further understand that I am responsible for any amounts not paid by my insurance for any reason.
Treatment options for my dental conditions have been explained. it is my responsibility as a patient to complete this treatment and to follow recommended maintenance schedules and instructions. If this treatment and maintenance plan is not followed, adverse results could affect my dental health and insurance coverage. I am fully aware and understand the above statement. If I decline care, I assume full responsibility.
The above fees are valid for 90 days from the date above without re-evaluation of conditions. Re-evaluations will be charged at usual and customary fees and will be paid at my expense.”
I was required to sign this in order to receive their services.
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On the day of the deep cleaning, they billed me $172 at the desk before I left. I thought that was the end of it.
Today, on December 11th, 2023, I received a bill in the mail for a $99 bill, listed as “Last statement balance”. The bill contains no information as to where the cost is coming from or why it’s being charged to me. It was listed as “FINAL NOTICE”, and that my “account is at risk of being placed in collections”.
The only thing is, this was the first I’d ever heard of this balance. I had never received a notice for this bill before today.
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So, I called my insurance. I was told that, no, none of the cleaning was covered, as they didn’t deem it necessary. I was emailed an EOB stating that I should owe $737 to the dental office. I have not been sent a bill for this, nor have I been notified in any way. This was $565 off from the estimate they provided to me.
Is there anything I can do in this situation? I feel utterly screwed for signing that paper. Is the No Surprises Act even applicable here?
