Why are Medical Billing Advocates Important for Cancer Patients?
Cancer treatment often involves numerous procedures, including diagnostics, surgeries, chemotherapy, and follow-up care. Each of these can generate its own set of bills, making the overall financial aspect overwhelming. Medical billing advocates help cancer patients by:
1. Identifying Errors: According to studies, over 80% of medical bills contain errors. These could be coding mistakes, duplicate charges, or incorrect billing for services not rendered. Advocates can spot these errors and work to correct them. 2. Cost Negotiation: They have the expertise to negotiate with healthcare providers and insurance companies to reduce costs, potentially saving patients thousands of dollars. 3. Insurance Navigation: Cancer patients often face issues with insurance claims. Advocates ensure that claims are processed correctly and in a timely manner. 4. Financial Planning: They can also assist in creating a financial plan to manage the costs of ongoing treatment.
