Understanding your rights when navigating your healthcare costs can make a significant difference. One such right is your entitlement to a Good Faith Estimate (GFE). Here, we will explain what a GFE is, how it benefits you, and how it works with ShareWELL.
What is a Good Faith Estimate?
A Good Faith Estimate (GFE) is documentation healthcare providers and facilities must provide if you’re uninsured or self-pay, detailing the expected costs for medical items and services. This estimate aims to give you a clearer picture of what you might pay, helping you make informed decisions about your healthcare.
Key Points of a Good Faith Estimate:
- Transparency: It provides a breakdown of the expected costs before you receive the service.
- Preventing Surprises: Helps avoid unexpected medical bills by giving you an upfront idea of the potential charges.
- Comparison Shopping: This enables you to compare costs between different providers and choose the one that best fits your budget.
Your Right to a Good Faith Estimate
Under the No Surprises Act, which took effect on January 1, 2022, you have the right to receive a GFE if you’re:
- Uninsured,
- Choosing to pay for healthcare services out of pocket or
- A self-pay patient.
Providers are required to give you a GFE when you schedule a service at least three business days in advance or upon request. This ensures that you have enough time to review the costs and plan accordingly.
How to Request a Good Faith Estimate
To request a GFE, you can:
- Contact your healthcare provider directly,
- Request it when scheduling an appointment,
- Use online patient portals if available.
When you ask for a GFE, make sure to specify all the services you anticipate needing, as the estimate should cover all related costs, including those from labs, specialists, and other ancillary services.
Support and Guidance
Our ShareWELL member support team is always available to assist you in understanding and requesting your GFE. We aim to make the process seamless and ensure you have all the necessary information to make the best healthcare decisions. For more information on how a GFE can benefit you during your next planned appointment or procedure, please visit:
Navigating Your Next Planned Procedure “The ShareWELL Way”
Understanding your right to a Good Faith Estimate is crucial in managing healthcare costs effectively. GFEs empower you to make informed decisions about your care by providing transparency and preventing unexpected bills. At ShareWELL, we are dedicated to supporting our members in every step of their healthcare journey, ensuring they have the information they need to access quality care.