Cost of treatment

Each year thousands of families search for medical care to treat a vascular anomaly.  Some have to travel out of state for care, this creates complications with health care insurance.  The few fortunate ones are able to get  authorization from the insurance companies for out of network care at in-network benefits because of an exclusion policy that allows for out of network care when in-network care is not available for a specific treatment.  However, most are not so lucky.  They may get some out of network benefit but in the end most families have to search of other options to pay for care.  Many of the NOVA family of physicians offer reduced fees of service for families that do not have insurance or when the insurance is not paying the in-network benefits.  The generosity of our physicians is above and beyond what any one expects.   I can not even count all the patients NOVA has referred that have been treated at various Vascular Anomaly Centers with minimum or no fee charged by the doctor.    While most of the doctors will work out payment plans and clearly outline fees for services some offices give verbal indication that there will be no out of pocket cost to the family when in reality this is not the case.  NOVA is advising ALL patients and their families to ask for a written estimate of charges for care from the doctor in advance of any treatment and for an explanation of the payment plan that is available.  NOVA is also advising ALL patietns and families to read the fine print of contracts of service with the doctor, the hospital and any associates of either.  While doctors may waive or reduce fees hospitals are not typically included in this agreement!

Here at NOVA we want to protect our families from any hardship that may occur when unexpected medical costs arise.  We have had recent concerns voiced to us about billing practices and unexpected charges by some offices. Upfront communication and clear expectations by patients and physicians can prevent financial heartaches later.

Please feel free to share your stories and experiences with us here.