Good Faith Estemate

The No Surprises Act, effective January 1st, 2022, ensures that healthcare providers give uninsured or self-pay patients a Good Faith Estimate (GFE) of anticipated costs for medical services. This estimate outlines the expected charges based on the information available at the time of creation, but it does not cover unforeseen costs that may arise during treatment. If your final bill exceeds the GFE by more than $400, you have the right to dispute it, either by negotiating with the provider or through a formal dispute resolution process with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The dispute process must be initiated within 120 days of receiving the bill, and a $25 fee applies.

Providers must supply a GFE within specific timeframes depending on when the service is scheduled. For services scheduled three or more business days in advance, the estimate must be provided within one business day; for services scheduled ten or more days ahead, within three business days. If you request an estimate without scheduling a service, the provider must give it within three business days. The GFE is not a binding contract and does not obligate you to proceed with the services. For more details or to initiate a dispute, visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises or call 800-985-3059. Keep a copy of your GFE in case of billing discrepancies.