Overdue Billing

[Meheux]

IAM A MARYLAND RESIDENT--I recently received a billing statement which included NO dates of service or patient information. It was a handwritten paragraph stating that I owed money for a dental bill for my daughter--the bill was for service from over 2 years ago.

The note stated that the insurance "hadn't paid its portion". At the time of my daughters visit she was covered under my insurance she has since been removed due to age requirements and her status as a NON_MINOR.

My question is am I obligated to pay a bill from that long ago--and isn't it the fault of the office that they were negligent in submitting this bill in a timely manner to my insurance company? What rights do I have under the law to not pay this and can it be reported on my credit.

Thanks

 

[JETX]

My question is am I obligated to pay a bill from that long ago

Depending on a review of the full facts, yes. The SOL in Maryland for verbal or written contracts is 3 years. That time has not passed.

[qutoe]and isn't it the fault of the office that they were negligent in submitting this bill in a timely manner to my insurance company?

No. The ultimate responsibility for payment of a medical bill is yours. The doctor doing a direct bill to the insurance company is a courtesy (and an way to make sure that they get paid).

What rights do I have under the law to not pay this and can it be reported on my credit.

Based on your post, you would have no legal right to challenge the bill (as long as it is accurate). And yes, not paying it can be reported to the CRA's.

 

[LittleNapolean]

Contact your insurance company and ask them if balance billing was permitted under your policy. It's not a given that a dentist is permitted to bill their patient if the insurance company doesn't pay.