I have NEVER filled out more than the initial 2 or three page new patient packet.
That said, the hospital system I use now doesn't check to make sure something is covered. I had found out the hard way. My EMG (a $3600 test for one side) was "out of network" even though it was performed in an in-network facility. I had to pay 20%.

There are three major hospital systems in my area and several "regional" systems in outlaying counties of our metropolitan area.

One of the majors is city owned. They do have staff who certify what is covered before the tests are run. Which is why, last May, when my doctor ordered my MRI it took a week to have it scheduled and run. The good news is, they also have much longer hours than most. My MRI was run at 8:30pm, their last appt is 10:30p. They are also a Level I Trauma Center. If you are injured in a Life threatening way, you REALLY want to go to this hospital. They are THAT good at Trauma. I was backboarded there after my car accident. Tried to return for follow up, after I vomited blood, because they were so busy in Trauma, I had to wait 6 hours to see someone.

Thank you Rosie and Jenny. I had not seen that way of looking at the big picture. I was very concerned about going to another doctor that was just going to brush me off. My last rheumy did that. Just looked at my hands and said this OA. Now the blood work is telling another story. Finally.

I think the whole medical system is falling apart. A lot of Doctors are in financial trouble. I hope this can be straitened out soon.

I know in my state, medical malpractice insurance premiums are horrific. Many doctors leave the state or become part of a large health system.

Sadly, there have been two times in my short time on this planet, that I could have sued for malpractice.
However, I chose not to because I wanted to heal emotionally, as well as physically.

Check with your insurance for their rules. In a PPO, the doctors have contracted to do things at specific price, but that doesn't include all procedure. My rheum has me sign something that said I was aware that most insurances don't cover vitamin b12 shots (??). My chiro lets us know what is and is not covered.

Many doctors no longer take Medicare/Medicaid patients in the US because they lose money every time they see one. My husband's GP tells his patients that he will not continue as their doc when they reach 65.

Gone are the days of patient friendly doctors' offices. Now they cover their asses with legalize disclaimers and you are held responsible for knowing what is and what is not covered....even though it is not clear at all. Meanwhile you are ill and you are not in the position to do all the leg work involved with finding out so you just trust that they will not rip you off.

GrammyKit.......When the doc orders a proceedure, xrays, blood work,etc. ask him if this is covered by your insurance, or, ask the medical clerk in his office, or, contact your insurer. Get phone numbers
and start digging for info.
Olga

I was with just medicare but recently started with AArp medicare complete..they tell you what drs are in their network(luckily all 4 of mine were)and theirs no hidden costs, its a flat fee and all is covered. 5.00 copay for regular dr...30.00 for specialist(Rheumy, G.I dr, eye dr, dentist, and so on. also 65.00 for emergency room. no copay at the beginning of the year or 20% of nothing like medicare.also prescrption is included on same plan..I went through all my meds and all were covered.copay is between 3.00 and 6.00 each for all of mine. the only catch is you have to be 50 or older.I like the idea of going in for my mri every 6 months and not worrying about paying 250.00 out of pocket ! I used to sign those papers everytime I went to see Rheumy and fill out how Im feeling in detail and all changes since last time I was there. I think thats procedure for them all.

Thanks everyone. I guess I have just become accustomed to the small town ways. It seems to be the way of things with new doctors.