Frequently Asked Questions
Will SMSI bill my primary and secondary insurance?
Yes, SMSI will submit bills to all of your insurance companies. You will need to provide us with complete information. Some insurance companies require additional information from the patient before they will process a claim. In this instance, it may be necessary for you to contact your insurance company and provide them with the additional information.
Will I receive an itemized statement?
Itemized statements are sent only if you request one. You will receive a monthly statement from our office that summarizes what your account activity has been. This statement will include services incurred, insurance payments and insurance adjustments, as well as, any personal payments that you have made.
Why did I receive a separate bill from the hospital?
The hospital will submit separate bill for surgical services provided in those facilities. If you have questions about those bills, please call the number printed on their statement. For your convenience here are the phone numbers for the facilities that Dr. Lee provides hospital services at: United Hospital District 507.526.3273 and River’s Edge Hospital and Clinic 507.931.2200.
Medicare and my supplement always pay my bill in full. Why do I have a balance due?
Medicare has medical necessity checks and rules on certain outpatient services. If Medicare has determined your service to be not medically necessary, you will be required to sign an Advanced Beneficiary Notice (ABN) prior to the service being performed. The service(s) will then be your responsibility. Normally, if Medicare does not pay for a service your supplement will not pay for it either.
Why should I contact my insurance company if they do not pay my bill?
We will make every effort to resolve your account with your insurance company. Occasionally, we will be unable to resolve the issue with your carrier and will need your assistance. If your insurance company is questioning the responsibility of another third party payer, usually they will only accept information from the patient or the subscriber to resolve this.
What is a co-payment?
A co-payment is a set fee you pay to the provider at the time services are rendered. Co-pays usually apply to office visits. The costs are usually minimal.
What is a deductible?
A deductible is a set amount that you must pay before your insurance benefits will pay. For example, if your policy has a $500 deductible, you must pay $500 out of pocket before your insurance carrier will pay benefits. Once you have met your deductible, your insurance carrier will usually pay the remainder at a specified percentage based on your policy agreement.
What is co-insurance?
Co-insurance is a percentage of your bill. For example, after your deductible has been satisfied, your insurance carrier will usually pay the remainder at a certain percentage, such as 80 percent. The remaining 20 percent will be your responsibility.
What electronic payment types do you accept?
We accept Care Credit (Medical Credit Card), Mastercard and Visa credit/debit cards.
Are my payments secure using an electronic method?
Yes. Your transactions are processed using secured servers. Your payments are made through an authorized service.