Good Faith Estimate: Understanding Your Medical Care Costs

You have the right to receive a "Good Faith Estimate" that outlines your medical care cost estimate. Under the law, health care providers are required to provide patients without insurance, or those not using insurance, with an estimate of the bill for medical items and services. You are entitled to a Good Faith Estimate for the total expected cost of any non-emergency items or services, which also includes related expenses such as medical tests, prescription drugs, equipment, and hospital fees. Make sure your health care provider gives you a Good Faith Estimate in writing at least one business day before your medical service or item. Additionally, you can request a Good Faith Estimate from your health care provider or any other provider you choose before scheduling an item or service. If you receive a bill that exceeds your Good Faith Estimate by $400 or more, you have the right to dispute the bill. Remember to keep a copy or a picture of your Good Faith Estimate for your records. For further questions or more information about your right to a Good Faith Estimate, visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises or call Lori Dinwiddie PsyD at (805) 941-0378.