I just read in today's (May 1, 2012) USA Today of a tactic hospitals and insurance companies are using to screw you out of more of your hard earned money. I would have added it to the hospital post, but, I no longer trust the editing tool on this blog. When I edited the roofing post, it left out whole sections and it was a pain recreating it.
The article said that hospitals are designating you as "observation care" and then using a loophole to charge you for ridiculously priced drugs. There are no price limits/guidelines. The problem gets worse because many coverage plans (especially Medicare) won't cover non-covered services. This includes self-administered drugs given to them in the hospital. You may think you have been "admitted" and your coverage applies, but, you would be wrong. Some patients are in the hospital for days and still not designated as "admitted". The hospitals justify this by saying that you not well enough to go home, but, not sick enough to be admitted.
The article suggests you try and bring in your own pills in original bottles. But, hospitals are not required to let you use them. It also recommends that you try and apply for the hospital's charity care program. Also, see if your insurer requires that hospitals with which it has contracts notify a member before delivering a non-covered service (Medicare and even Advantage does not have this requirement). The article says that there is a route to appeal the charges, but, doesn't say what it is. They suggest contacting a consumer advocacy group if you have a problem. They don't list them.
I'm not sure how you argue with them over your designation, but, ask what it is before you agree to their treatment. Especially, if it is for drugs you already buy/have. They will probably give you another brand though and say it is different. Right?
I have no idea if the local hospitals are doing this. I didn't check my status. I don't have insurance.
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