Good Faith Estimate:

Under Section 2799B-6 of the Public Health Service Act, healthcare providers and healthcare facilities are required to inform individuals who are not enrolled in a plan or coverage or a Federal healthcare program, or not seeking to file a claim with their plan or coverage both orally and in writing of their ability, upon request or at the time of scheduling health care items and services, to receive a “Good Faith Estimate” of expected charges. The law basically states:
 

• You have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate for the total expected cost of any non-emergency items or services. This includes related costs like medical tests, prescriptions drugs, equipment, and hospital feels. 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.
   

• You can also ask your health care provider, and any other provider you choose, for a Good Faith Estimate before you schedule an item of service. If you receive a bill that is at least $400 more than your Good Faith Estimate from a medical provider, you can dispute the bill.
   

• Make sure you save a copy of your Good Faith Estimate for your records. You may also start a dispute resolution process with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). If you choose to use the dispute resolution process, you must start the dispute process within 120 calendar days (about 4 months) of the date on the original bill.
   

• There is a $25 fee to use the dispute process. If the agency reviewing your dispute agrees with you, you will have to pay the price on this GFE. If the agency disagrees with you and agrees with the health care provider or facility, you will have to pay the higher amount. For questions or more information about your right toa Good Faith Estimate, visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises.