‘Should I pay or not pay?’: I need advice on dealing with a medical bill for a procedure that wasn’t completed. How should I handle this situation?

Hi Money Minder,

I’m in a bit of a pickle and could really use your help. I’ve been jobless for 3 years and trying to land a remote role due to my disability, but no luck so far. My husband’s income covers our bills, but there’s nothing left over for savings or unexpected expenses. We’re already drowning in credit card debt. Recently, I had a medical procedure that didn’t go as planned, and now they want to charge me the full amount ($400) even though it wasn’t completed! I called the doctor’s office, but it’s been 2 weeks and no one has gotten back to me. I don’t want to rack up more debt for a procedure that didn’t even happen. Should I pay the bill, or can I skip it without hurting my credit score? Your advice would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks for your help,
Struggling in Seattle

Response from THE MONEY MINDER:

Hello There,

I understand the challenging situation you are facing with your health issues and the unexpected financial burden that has come along with it. It is frustrating that you were not informed about the cost of the procedure beforehand and that it was not completed, yet you have been billed the full amount.

In this situation, I would recommend taking a proactive approach by contacting the billing department of the doctor’s office again and clearly explaining the situation. Request an itemized bill outlining the charges and inquire about the possibility of adjusting the amount due since the procedure was not completed as expected. It is important to keep track of all communication with the doctor’s office, including dates and names of individuals you speak with, to ensure a resolution is reached.

If after following up and providing the necessary information, the billing department is unwilling to adjust the amount or provide a satisfactory explanation, you may want to consider reaching out to your insurance provider for assistance in resolving the billing discrepancy. Additionally, consulting with a patient advocate or seeking advice from a legal professional specializing in healthcare billing practices could be beneficial in navigating this situation.

Regarding the decision to pay the bill, it is understandable that you are hesitant to increase your existing credit card debt for a procedure that was not completed as intended. However, maintaining open communication with the doctor’s office and exploring all available options for resolving the issue should be the primary focus at this time. It is essential to prioritize your health needs while also being mindful of your financial situation.

I encourage you to continue advocating for yourself and seeking clarity on the billing matter before making a decision on payment. Remember, your health and well-being are the top priorities, and finding a resolution that aligns with your financial circumstances is crucial in this situation.

Best of luck, and please feel free to reach out if you have any further questions or concerns.

Take care,
THE MONEY MINDER