For clients who choose self-pay

Because my practice is private pay, this information is especially relevant for clients who are choosing not to use insurance for therapy services. You may request a Good Faith Estimate before starting services or at any time during care.

Your right to a Good Faith Estimate

If you are not using insurance for your services, you have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate of the expected cost of care. This applies both to clients who do not have insurance and to clients who have insurance but choose to pay privately instead.

What is included in a Good Faith Estimate

A Good Faith Estimate outlines the expected charges for services that are reasonably anticipated as part of your care. The estimate is intended to help you understand and plan for the cost of services in advance.

When an estimate is provided

You have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate when scheduling services or when you ask for one. CMS states that for services scheduled at least 3 business days in advance, providers generally must give the estimate within the required federal timeframes.

Save your estimate for your records

It is a good idea to keep a copy of your Good Faith Estimate for your records. It can be helpful if you have questions later about billing or charges.

If your bill is much higher than expected

If you receive a bill that is at least $400 more than your Good Faith Estimate, you may have the right to dispute the bill through the patient-provider dispute resolution process. Federal guidance also says this process generally must be started within 120 calendar days of the date on the original bill.

More information