Frequently Asked Questions
Please submit your questions in my contact form if you need more answers, or schedule a session with me.
What should I do first?
1. Schedule a live discovery session with me, or download the
free DIY Handbook.
2. If you schedule with me, please have your medical
paperwork handy.
3. Decide if you prefer negotiating and appealing your medical
bills on your own, or if you want my assistance.
What paperwork do I need to provide?
To act as your advocate, I would review your documentation to determine whether you have a strong case. This should include medical records for the healthcare you are disputing, medical bills, itemized statements, Explanation of Benefits (EOBs), and any other correspondence with your providers or insurance company. I will need your permission (a Release of Personal Health Information form) to communicate on your behalf. We will sign an agreement together for your protection outlining these services. I will take it from there!
I'm already in debt. What will this service cost me?
Consultancy: My Patient Voice requires a $250 deposit to begin work and charges 20% of the amount ultimately saved or reimbursed to you.
For example, if you receive a reduction in debt of $5,000, 20% of that amount ($1,000) would be the payment for services. Your initial $250 deposit will be credited toward this amount, reducing it to $750, which My Patient Voice will then invoice for. If there are no savings, there are no additional fees for time invested.
Patients typically save 60% on their balance without out-of-pocket fees and have a 70% success rate in reducing medical debt. Sometimes, balances are eliminated. We can also set up a reasonable payment plan for the 20% fee.
DIY: If you can't afford the 20% fee, you can use the DIY Handbook to negotiate yourself. If you need help, you can pay an hourly rate (or 15-minute increments) for my assistance.
What process do you use?
There are four main ways I use to reduce and manage your medical debt. These are:
1. Opening an appeal with your Insurance company for denied claims.
2. If necessary, escalate appeals requesting an Independent Medical Review (IMR) at the state level.
3. Negotiate with your provider(s) to reduce your owed balance.
4. Help locate and negotiate a financial aid or payment plan.
How long will it take to get a resolution?
Sometimes claims go months or years in dispute if no one steps in to challenge the status quo, resulting in bills being sent to collections. With advocacy, on average, a bill resolution typically takes 3-4 months. If not complex and all parties are responsive, less time. When appealing directly to your insurance company, they have 30 days to respond. If they deny your claim, there is a higher-level appeal opportunity. That is another 30 days. If your situation is an emergency, appeals can be expedited. It all depends on your unique circumstances.
How do you handle confidentiality?
I ask that you request a Release of Information Form appointing me to speak with your insurance company and providers on your behalf. Your private information is discussed with only these approved entities regarding your case. I use, access, share, and maintain your personal information in accordance with the Privacy Policy, which utilizes security keys, encryption, and other safeguards. To ensure transparency, I do not handle reimbursements or payments between you, your providers, or your insurance company.
