New video demonstrates system inefficiencies. Has this happened to anyone else?

The other day I got home from work and sorted through the endless amounts of junk mail and bills that I receive day after day. One piece specifically caught my eye this time – what looked like billing from my OB/GYN’s office. When you’re closing in on nine months pregnant, any piece of mail from your OB’s office is of utmost concern.

I immediately ripped open the envelope and scanned the complicated document to read on the final line, “you owe $3,875.89.” I was floored! Yes, I realize I have had what seems like hundreds of ultrasounds due to minor pregnancy complications and monitoring, as well as additional prenatal care, but almost $4k out of my own pocket just didn’t sound right.

See, I work for an insurance company – not only am I self-covered by my work insurance, but I’m also covered by my husband’s. In fact, during my first prenatal appointment, I met with my OB’s billing department to find out exactly what I would need to pay out-of-pocket when this ordeal was over. As most everyone, we live on a budget too. I was quite impressed when they gave me a complete listing of how much each portion of the care costs, why it costs that much, and more. I was also told that because of my pleasant “double- insured” situation, that I would have to pay very little, if anything, out-of-pocket after delivery.

So why the sudden $4k?

The next morning I contacted my doctor’s office and was told to “ignore” the statement – that my situation was the same despite the additional testing I had undergone, and “not to worry about it.” Only problem is, if you read the fine print it also states that if I don’t pay the $4k by X date, I’ll be charged interest. However, after questioning the billing department again, and contacting both insurance companies, I’m still unclear as to what I’m really responsible for when this is over. But what can I do other than just wait for another bill in the mail?

Has this type of thing happened to anyone else out there? I’m sure it has. That’s why I got a kick out of this video called “Checkout.” Watch it, and let me know what you think. Here's a link to it on WhatsTheRealCost.org http://www.whatstherealcost.org/wtrc/toolbox/connect.html?video&site=.