Contestability Period?

[fine409]

What is the name of your state? KY In 2004 we took my son to a counselor which accepted my insurance. I gave them my card and filled out all the forms. I paid my $15.00 copay for one visit. In December 2006, I got a bill from them for $250.00 for two office visits. I went back and checked and we never received an EOB or a declination letter from the insurance company for the visits. I called the doctor's office and they said they were cleaning out some old files and found where they were never paid for the visits. In 2005 I changed jobs and of course insurance companys. The doctor's office never submitted the claim. I am told that there is a 15 month contestability period which after it expires, I am no longer responsible for the debt. Is this true? Do I have any recourse? Thanks in advance for your help.

 

[ecmst12]

Contestablilty period usually refers to something else.

If the doctor's claims were denied because they did not submit them within the timeframe dictated by your insurance company, and they were contracted with your insurance company, then no you are not responsible for the bills. It is their fault for not submitting the bills in time. This is known as a "timely filing" denial.

 

[fine409]

Thank you very much.