Medical Collections
Nearly fifteen months ago I visited several doctors (same medical group, major provider in NY/ NJ) and was told by their offices that their services would be covered by my insurance but after these urgent visits it turned out they were not. It seems they misunderstood/ didn’t bother to verify my exact policy despite me giving them my insurance policy/ card info. I made many, many, attempts to resolve with the provider and after initially being told that it would be sorted out the lines went dead.
Fast forward over a year and the bills have gone to collection. I’ve spoken with the collection agency already and have been offered a 25% discount (I didn’t mention the billing issues/ disputed, only conveyed that I’m unemployed, which is accurate).
Prior to paying, I’ve asked for something documenting that the debt would be considered resolved if the negotiated amount were paid, and that they would not report to any credit agencies. They’ve refused to provide any kind of documentation before payment and won’t speak to credit agency reporting.
I’m considering emailing vs calling again (I’m a lot better negotiating in writing) and while I’m at it trying to get a discount larger than 25% given the circumstances. The full debt is around $1500, providers are in NY state, and I lived in NY state at the time of service (now in PA). Any suggestions on language to use/ points to make/ records to request?
My main concern is avoiding a significant hit to my credit, though I’ve been told by a few parties (including by the original provider “off the record”) that medical debts like this are NOT reported by either the provider or collection agency. Is this accurate? It’s now been well over a year as mentioned so I am quite concerned.
Sorry for the long winded post. I’m going to post on other subs so I’ve included all pertinent details. Thank you!