We want to make it as simple as possible for you to manage the costs of services for medical treatment. The information in this section will help you understand costs and the billing process, whom to contact and options for financial assistance.
We highly recommend you review this section carefully before your hospital stay.
Understanding Your Payment Responsibilities
Planning ahead is very helpful. By discussing expenses in advance with your doctor, your insurer and the hospital, you will be better able to manage and minimize medical bills.
It’s also important for you to know your patient rights and responsibilities.
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Before your visit or admission, we will ask you to provide your insurance information. Payment will be required for the part of your hospital service or physician bills not covered by your insurance plan. This may include copayments, deductibles and coinsurance amounts. Keep in mind that while Johns Hopkins may be in network for your insurance plan for most services, a Johns Hopkins facility/member organization may not be considered participating or in network for all services, such as laboratory or radiology services. You may need to go to your insurance’s preferred provider for these services, or pay out of pocket.
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Depending on your insurance benefits, the amount collected at your visit may be based on estimated charges. Remember that you will be responsible for any balance due after your insurance has paid.
Charges for medical services are estimates based on previous services provided by a Johns Hopkins Medicine health care provider. The actual cost of care varies from one patient to another, because all of our medical care is individualized to best meet patient needs. Your admission or visit might be longer or shorter than expected — a procedure may take more or less time than planned, or additional observation or other unplanned services could be needed.
We bill for the actual cost of medical care, which can include fees and costs in addition to those in the estimated amount. Also, hospital rates in Maryland are regulated and can fluctuate.
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For the financial health of the hospital, it is our policy to collect all amounts owed before services are rendered. For nonemergency visits or admissions, your treatment may be denied or delayed if your financial obligation is not met. We offer payment plans and financial assistance to help you manage health care expenses. Talk to us before you arrive so that your visit or admission is easy and hassle-free.