We understand that navigating medical billing and insurance information can be overwhelming, and we hope answers to these frequently asked questions will help.
Coordination of Benefits (COB) happens when your insurance plan wants to confirm if either you, or someone in your family has health benefits under more than one insurance plan (including medical benefits under motor vehicle insurance and personal injury protection insurance). COB is often required each calendar year or based on diagnosis. The insurance company will not process any claims until this is updated by the insured. If you received a form from your insurance company, please fill it out and return it as soon as possible. There also may be a number you can call. If you did not receive a form, please call your insurance company by using the customer service number on the back of your insurance card.
As a parent, you want to ensure your child receives the best possible medical care. But dealing with medical bills and insurance can be frustrating and confusing. At Akron Children’s Hospital, we aim to simplify the billing process so you can focus on your child’s health.
Overview of Billing at Akron Children’s
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We directly bill insurance companies on your behalf and accept most major insurance plans.
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You will receive statements showing what your insurance paid, any adjustments, and the amount you owe.
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Multiple payment options are available online, by phone, mail or in person.
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Financial counselors can help apply for financial assistance or set up interest-free payment plans
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Estimates are available online or by calling to get an idea of costs beforehand.
Our billing department strives to provide excellent customer service and answer any questions you have along the way.
Submitting Claims to Insurance Providers
After your child receives care at Akron Children’s, we handle submitting claims to insurance companies. All you need to do is provide complete insurance information at registration.
We will bill both primary and secondary insurances and include documentation required by your plan If an insurance company does not pay within 60 days, we may ask for your portion of the bill while we continue seeking payment from them
With proper insurance information on file, we take care of this process for you to ensure maximum coverage based on your plan’s provisions.
Receiving Statements and Making Payments
Once your insurance company processes the claims, they will send an Explanation of Benefits (EOB) detailing what part they covered. We will also send statements showing paid amounts, adjustments and any balance you owe.
Akron Children’s offers several payment options:
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Online – Pay via MyChart or as a guest through our website.
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Phone – Call our automated pay-by-phone line anytime.
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Mail – Send a check or money order with your statement stub.
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In person – Pay at registration or discharge using cash, checks, or credit cards.
Payment plans and financial assistance are available if you cannot pay the full amount due. Our financial counselors will work with you based on your financial situation.
Getting Cost Estimates in Advance
Since medical billing can be complex, we provide cost estimates so you have an idea of what to expect. Estimates are based on your insurance and past patient charges.
Getting an estimate is easy:
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Use the MyChart app if you have an account.
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Check our website’s price estimate page.
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Call a financial counselor at 330-543-2455.
While not a guarantee, estimates help you budget and plan financially. You can also call your insurance to confirm coverage specifics.
Additional Billing Questions Answered
We understand you likely have more questions about medical billing and insurance. Below we answer some commonly asked questions:
Why did I get a bill when my child wasn’t hospitalized?
You may receive a bill from us for:
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Lab tests or other services ordered by your pediatrician.
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Newborn evaluations performed at the hospital of birth before discharge.
What is Physician Visit Level 3 on my bill?
We use coding levels 1-5 to indicate time and complexity, with 5 being most complex. This is an industry standard.
Why did my payment get divided on the bill?
We apply payments to oldest charges first unless you specify otherwise. The billing statement shows details.
Why can’t someone else discuss my child’s account?
Due to privacy laws, we require a release form on file for anyone other than the legal guardian to access details.
I can’t afford these bills, what assistance is available?
Our financial counselors can help enroll you in payment plans or financial assistance programs based on need.
Let Us Take the Stress Out of Medical Billing
At Akron Children’s Hospital, we work hard to simplify the medical billing process for you. Our knowledgeable staff is trained to answer questions, provide estimates and financial counseling, set up payment plans, and take the headache out of dealing with insurance companies.
We believe medical billing should never get in the way of caring for your child. Contact our billing department anytime you need guidance on your account.
How will I know how much I owe?
You may request an estimate of your financial responsibility prior to service at Akron Childrenâs. Information needed includes the serviceâs CPT code and your insurance details. Self service estimates can be obtained through MyChart. Estimates can also be obtained through financial counseling by calling 330-543-8500. Your health plan may require a copayment or deductible that will be due during appointment registration or hospital discharge. Check with your insurance provider on the amount that you will be responsible for at this time. Following your healthcare services, your insurance provider will send you an explanation of benefits (EOB), which will detail the amount it has paid, any non-covered or denied amounts, and the remaining balance that you are responsible for paying. We encourage you to review your EOB and compare it to your Akron Childrenâs billing statement. Please call your insurance provider or a billing representative if you have questions or concerns.
Why did I receive a bill for a doctor I did not see?
Certain physicians help with your medical care even though you may not meet them. Commonly, these are the doctors who read your lab results, X-rays and EKGs, among others.
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FAQ
How do I contact Akron children’s pay by phone?
Billing questions? 330-543-8500 or 1-800-933-7440 to speak with a customer service team member Monday-Friday 8 a. m. to 4:30 p. m. (EST).
How old is Akron Children’s hospital?
Akron Children’s has been caring for children since 1890. Our two hospital campuses, six regional health centers, and fifty primary and specialty care locations across Ohio make it easier for busy families to get the good care they need.
How do I reset my Akron Children’s hospital password?
To change your password, go to the MyChart Welcome page and click on the “Forgot Password?” link below the “Sign-In” button. You will be asked to enter your MyChart Username, zip code and date of birth.
What is the phone number for Akron Children’s hospital MyChart?
You will need to call the Akron Children’s MyChart help desk at 330-543-4400 if you can’t remember any of this information or don’t have a valid email address on file in order to get back into your MyChart account.
How do I pay my Akron Children’s Bill online?
Akron Children’s is making it easier than ever to pay your bill online – with MyChart bill pay. When you log into your account at mychart.com, you’ll be able to see your real-time account balance, paperless billing, recurring payment plans, and more. akronchildrens. org.
How do I set up a payment plan at Akron Children’s?
For at least $25 a month, Akron Children’s lets you set up payment plans that last up to 18 months. To set up a recurring payment plan in MyChart, go to the top navigation and click on “Billing Summary.” You can also find this under “Billing” in the main hamburger menu. Click on “Set Up Payment Plan. ”.
Does Akron Children’s have a MyChart account?
If the guarantor has a MyChart account and logs in on your computer or the app, they can access the following benefits: Akron Children’s lets you set up payment plans with a minimum $25 monthly payment for up to 18 months. To sign up for a MyChart recurring payment plan:
Does Akron Children’s provide financial assistance?
While Akron Children’s does allow providers who aren’t employed by the hospital to see patients at our locations, the Hospital’s Financial Assistance policy doesn’t cover the services provided by those providers.
Does my health plan cover Akron Children’s Hospital?
Our goal when we work with health plans is to make sure that all of Akron Children’s Hospital’s services are covered. But just because Akron Children’s Hospital is listed as a participating or preferred hospital in your health plan’s Provider Directory doesn’t mean that all of its services are covered.
How do I access the Akron Children’s Hospital employee pay statements site?
Login credentials are needed to access the Akron Children’s Hospital’s Employee Pay Statements site. Please enter the email address and password that you used to register on the site. Use the links below the “Login” button on this page to make a new account or change your password.
