How am I paying less for a specialist, even though I haven’t met my deductible?

What the title says.

I have a plan with a $1,500 deductible, which, according to my plan’s “cost sharing” section — it states that my insurance will pay 90% of the cost a specialist office visit, after the deductible’s been met.

I went to see a virtual psychiatrist last week, which I believe would fall under a “specialist visit”. I asked them how much they usually charge, and they said it depends on my insurance — but looking at my plan, they said that they expected the total cost to be around $400, but I wouldn’t know how much my total out of pocket would be until they billed with insurance.

I received a billing statement from Alma, their biller today — for only $44?!?! How would this happen? I’m getting insurance benefits, even though I haven’t met my deductible? I’m afraid to ask my office, in the event that this was a mistake and I’ll be billed more, lol. Will there be legal repercussions for me if I actually was under-billed?? Thank you!! I’m so confused.

submitted by /u/lowkeyfat
[comments]