FAQ
Merit Health Medical Group - Vicksburg's mission to deliver quality local healthcare. Consistent with fulfilling that mission, we take a positive and proactive approach to patient billing and collections. Our goal is to coordinate payment for services in the most efficient, timely and customer-oriented manner possible. We understand that the billing and collection process can be confusing. In order to assist you in understanding these services and to answer any questions you might have, please review the following.
Why do I have to show my ID at each appointment?
Our primary concern is for your health and safety. We request your identification to ensure that we access and update the correct medical record. It’s also to protect you from fraud. By requesting proof of identity, we are able to safeguard your personal medical and financial information.
Why do I need to bring my insurance card to each visit?
In order to file an insurance claim on your behalf it is necessary to make certain that we have the most current and accurate information about your insurance coverage and specific plan benefits. That is why it is our policy to verify your insurance information during each visit.
Why do I have to answer the same questions each time I am registered?
Many of the questions we ask are either required by your insurance company or requested to ensure that we have the most accurate information on file. This information allows us to satisfy the requirements of your insurance company and to file your claim with little or no involvement on your behalf. Certain questions are mandated by the federal agency of CMS (Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services).
Why am I asked to pay my co-payment and deductible on the day of service?
It is our goal to provide you with an overview of your insurance benefits prior to receiving hospital services. Our process allows you the opportunity to understand how your health insurance benefits will be applied to the service and the opportunity to ask specific questions about your insurance benefits. We will also take this opportunity to discuss the financial options available for any amount not covered by your insurance. In keeping with the terms of your agreement with your insurance company, as well as the agreement between the insurance company and the hospital, it is our practice to request that co-payments and deductibles be paid prior to or on the day of service.
How may I pay?
We accept payment by cash, check and most major credit cards.
Do I need a referral?
If you have an HMO plan with which we are contracted, you need a referral/authorization from your primary care physician. If we have not received a referral prior to your arrival for your scheduled service, we have a telephone available for you to call your primary care physician to obtain it. If you are unable to obtain the referral at that time, your appointment will be rescheduled.
What are my responsibilities for outpatient testing/surgery?
If your physician recommends a minor procedure, a staff member will be available to answer specific questions about the procedure scheduling process, discuss the paperwork and tests involved, and complete all pre-certification/authorization requirements that may be needed for your insurance company to pay the maximum benefits on your behalf.
You will also be asked for a pre-surgical deposit, the amount of which depends on your coverage and deductible amount. A cost estimate which shows your financial responsibility, based on the benefit levels and coverage of your insurance plan, will be explained by a staff member.
What if my child needs outpatient surgery?
A parent or legal guardian must accompany patients who are minors on the patient’s first visit. The accompanying adult is responsible for payment of the account, according to the policy outlined above.