Lab Work

[loveRicky]

I had the following bloodwork drawn: CBC with Differential Platelet, Comp. Metablolic Panel (14), Protein Electro S,m Immunofixation Serum, Free K&L LI Chains, QnS, Folate (Folic Acid)Serum, LDH, Vitamin B12 and Veinpuncture. The entire bill was $1,037.40. Medicare denied payment for my services, other than looks like they paid $125.14. It looks like my supplemental (Colonial Penn/Bankers) paid $700.21. I have a $211.05 bill which states BALANCE DUE NOW!!! First and only bill I received. My Colonial Penn/Bankers charges me $489 per month for coverage. I could not change during the open period. My health: blood cancer(s), Stage IIIA kidney disease and cryoglobulinemia ....no one wants me! I literally am doing without heat right now because I cannot pay for it. I bought a small portable heater that I run on eco ONLY because I was so cold at night, I could NOT sleep. I only run it at bedtime. I lost my husband at age 62 (15 years ago on the 19th). I worked all my life and find it hard to believe I cannot afford heat. I am ashamed of myself!!! IF I get bills like this for bloodwork, I won't be able to have it drawn anymore. I want to stay positive and upbeat, but days like this make it very difficult. I am on hold now with Medicare(been 1 hour already). Thank you for letting me vent. IF anyone has any suggestions, please let me know. Have a wonderful Friday!

[lankisterguy Volunteer]

Hi loveRicky,

I suggest you contact LLS.org ASAP, lls.org/support-resources/f... Contact our Patient Financial Assistance Team: [phone] | [e-mail]

Len

[lankisterguy Volunteer]

Hi loveRicky,

It's not clear to me if your Medicare is an Advantage plan (Medicare Part C) or traditional Medicare Part A& B.

If you are on original / conventional Medicare Part B, and you did not sign a waiver agreeing to pay any charges refused by Medicare- BEFORE your treatment, then the hospital or doctor will be responsible for the "$211.05 bill which states BALANCE DUE NOW!"

Look at your Medicare Card and if it says Hospital (PartA) and Medical (Part B) then contact the doctor or hospital to pay the bill, unless they have a form you signed at the appointment.

Len