A hospital bill was paid in full. Now 4 12 yrs later it resurfaces and now they are saying there is a 1500.00 outstanding due because of out network facility that used.?

Here are some steps you can take to resolve this situation:

1. Review the Hospital Bill:

Obtain a copy of the original hospital bill and the recent bill that claims an outstanding amount. Carefully examine the details, including the services provided, dates, and any previous payments made.

2. Contact the Hospital's Billing Department:

Reach out to the hospital's billing department and have a conversation with a representative. Explain that you believe the bill has already been paid in full 4 1/2 years ago and inquire about the reason for the recent claim. Request any supporting documentation or explanation for the outstanding amount.

3. Check Your Payment Records:

Gather any documentation you have related to the original payment of the hospital bill. This may include bank statements, canceled checks, or receipts that show the payment was made.

4. Verify Insurance Coverage:

Confirm that your insurance coverage was active and sufficient to cover the hospital bill at the time of the service. If the out-of-network facility was used, check if your insurance plan had any specific rules regarding out-of-network charges.

5. File an Insurance Claim:

If it turns out that your insurance did not cover the out-of-network facility charges and you were not informed about this at the time, you may need to file a claim with your insurance company. Provide them with the necessary documentation, including the hospital bills and explanations of benefits (EOB).

6. Negotiate with the Hospital:

If the hospital insists on the outstanding amount, try negotiating a settlement. They may be willing to reduce the amount or offer a payment plan, especially if you can demonstrate that you have already paid the bill in full.

7. Seek Legal Advice:

If the hospital is persistent and you are confident that the bill has been paid, you may want to consult with a legal professional who specializes in healthcare law. They can provide you with guidance on your rights and options.

8. Document Your Communications:

Keep a record of all your interactions with the hospital, insurance company, and any other relevant parties. This includes dates, times, names of individuals you spoke to, and summaries of the conversations.

9. File a Complaint:

If you believe you are being wrongly charged, you can file a complaint with the relevant healthcare regulatory authority or consumer protection agency in your area.

10. Consider Mediation:

If negotiations fail, you may want to consider mediation as an alternative to litigation. A neutral third party can help facilitate communication and find a resolution that works for both parties.