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Serving Over 20,000 US Medical Transcriptionists

Insurance companies

Posted By: Kyrie on 2008-06-10
In Reply to: Sure... - MT

I do know that there are insurance companies that will deny coverage of a person if that person has EVER been TESTED for HIV, despite circumstances involved. People entering the military are automatically tested for HIV. This in effect just caused the person to be denied coverage from that one particular company. I know of another company that has denied one man benefits for life insurance because of a medication he has been taking, despite the reason for that particular medication. Imagine being denied life ins because maybe you took Wellbutrin, a medication that can be used for several purposes.

Medical records are not protected despite HIPPA. Medical records are the most available records to any eyes of all records out there. HIPPA is a smoke screen to appease the masses, so that people don't storm Congress.


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MT companies negotiate with the insurance companies until they get what they want

It is strictly up to the agreement between the employer and the insurance company.  Your new employer can tell you what the pre-existing clause is in your new policy.  Some require proof of insurance for the past 12 months.  It may say something like if a diagnosis has not been made NOR treatment received within the last __ months.  Not good when companies negotiate with a pre-existing clause in order to get a lower rate.  Better check with your HR with your new company before doing anything.  It really gets hairy !


Do any MTs just go buy their own insurance, is so which companies do you
nm
While many insurance companies sm
have been paying for this over the past few years, it's become such a "common" thing that many have it on their list for non-coverage this coming year.  When you find out the company and the insurance company they use, call and verify that it does in fact cover the surgery. 
Considering insurance companies
only reimburse .02 on the dollar, they'd need to bill over $500 to make their $5 needed.  Sad, but true.
They usually herd them because tis what the insurance companies
x
Insurance companies get rich
If you look at the profits, insurance companies are getting rich.  They are the ones pocketing all the money.  Plus probaby the hospitals are not far behind. I feel the same, my docs are not getting rich. 
has anyone ever charged insurance companies for doing their work - SM
I have a lot of medical issues with my family and so see a lot of doctors and pay a lot of copays.  Each and every time I see a doctor or facility I have to pay a copay, which I always ALWAYS charge on my credit card.  No exception.  Do not pay, do not see the doctor or have the test.  Yet time and time again I get letters from the doctor's billing or facility saying I owe a copay to them.  When I call them up, explain that I paid my copay at the time of services rendered and do not owe anything further, I am told they don't have a record of it.  I must find the receipt and send them a copy for proof of payment.  In short, I must do their job because they are either too lazy or inefficient to do it.  Earlier this month I got a statement from the x-ray facility saying that I owed a copay.  The customer (dis)service person was very unhelpful when I explained that I always made my copay first and it showed up on my credit card statement.  Finally I told him I would call the facility myself and get things straightened out, which I did (they had put my copay into a different account by mistake).  But I ended up doing his job and got treated rudely to boot.  Then yesterday, I got yet another doctor's billing statement saying I owed my copay.  I called and left a message saying that it had already gone through on my credit card bill and would not be paying.  They want proof.  Am I out of line saying, fine, I will photocopy the receipt (and this is an NCR receipt so the office has a copy of it) and my credit card bill (with everything else blanked out) and send it to you as proof of my payment, but it will require my invoicing you a $10 processing fee.  If you are not willing to reimburse me for my time to straighten out your mistake, then I will not provide proof of payment.  This takes time out of my day to hunt through my receipts, make a photocopy, document it in writing (LOL I learned that VERY early on), then postage, etc.  Why must I do this without being reimbursed for it.  IS ANYONE ELSE FED UP WITH PEOPLE NOT DOING THEIR JOBS?????  Arrrrghhh.  I feel every so much better.
Insurance companies already know. Doctor bills them you know.
I'm not running for political office. Who would be interested in my medical records and what could they do with them if they did have them?
wow!! not true - they just changed insurance companies (sm)
at the end of the year.  I don't know about the family coverage, I get the single, but it is about 1/3 of what you said.  Maybe you should give them another look.
the major insurance companies should also be notified. SM
Plain and simple, HIPAA regulations mean nothing once their insured patient's medical records leave the country. I really cannot understand why the major insurance carriers in the U.S. have not cracked down on offshoring medical records, as this is not within guidelines of HIPAA, which was created by the Department of Health and Human Services. I feel the insurance companies here in the U.S. should refuse to pay insurance claims if a patient's confidential medical information leaves the country where no regulations on privacy are in place or enforceable. Can you imagine how many doctors and hospitals would make themselves more informed on where patient medical records are being transcribed if their claims are suddenly being denied for payment. I say inform Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield, Health America, Medicaid, Medicare, etc. I think this is where the changes need to start.
I bet other insurance carriers have insurance for their employees. Why not Wal-Mart? nm
:+
Most companies do no use their only files (HIPAA). They use files provided by other companies, serv
If you can get through the test files, then the sound quality on the actual company files is better. And, the dictation is never as bad as the test files, plus you have QA to help with hard blanks.
Insurance

If you don't have insurance (dental, vision, prescription, chiropractic, and some locations medical) and don't have a lot to spend on insurance, ask me what I signed up for if interested.


There's a lot of information to tell and I don't want to ramble on if no one's interested.


Talk to ya later,


Andrea - Medical Transcripionist (Nashville, TN)


How can MQ take away the insurance

when the MT is paying for it also?  Does that not count for anything?


Insurance
I didn't mean they were taking it away. What I meant is taking it over not making quota. Sorry.
wish I could help on that one - I have no insurance, however, -
I work for one of the TOP docs in NYC who is internationally known, so whenever I am sick, he has taken care of me, called in favors from other specialists, etc. The only bill I have to pay is the lab bill. If you work for yourself, that might be a route to go. I even got my bill at NYU Medical Center 75% off!!!

At one time Aetna was pretty good as far as rates for individuals.

Pet insurance....sm
No flames please, but how do you go about getting pet insurance? When you say "pretty inexpensive", what range are you talking about? Please, any info greatly appreciated. TIA
UPS insurance
I have sent packages via UPS that I have packaged myself and was still covered under their automatic $100 worth of insurance.  I wonder if someone at the UPS store is giving you incorrect information?  I had an ebay package damaged and they paid for the item even though I packaged it myself.  Can you call the main UPS number and ask someone else?
Insurance
I am just curious about liability insurance for people that have IC status.  Is it required and if so where can I find out some info on this?  TIA
IC insurance
I have researched this myself and found that going through your local Chamber of Commerce is probably the most affordable way to go.  If you become a member you are then eligible to get a good rate in health insurance and they offer many different options including HSA (health savings accounts). Check out different Chambers near you though because the membership fee can vary.
Insurance
I have a liability policy for which I pay $164 annually.  This does not cover errors and omissions.  For this type of insurance the cost would be sky high, or so I've been told.
insurance
I agree.  I've had mine for 9 years as it was required and I've never used it.  The only use it is, is for a write-off as a business expense for me.
insurance
there are several companies who now offer individual plans, depending on where you are, I had BC/BS - paid higher premium because I wanted good coverage, but can usually find something for around 100.00 a month if you don't have medical problems, copay for prescriptions may be 30-35.00.
insurance q
If you're someone with few health risks (non-smoking, etc.) and no major illnesses, you can probably get a good policy with any one of the major insurers, but ask specifics and shop and compare. When I was working as independent I tried to get one myself but they want to often put you in a $5,000 annual deductible which means you really have to get bad sick or hurt to even really see any benefits paid on your behalf and sometimes if you have a common condition like thyroiditis they would put an exclusion in for the first 6 months to 12 months that you have happen to need surgical treatment for that condition, i.e. thyroidectomy, you are practically on your own because it's pre-existing. I would suggest first applying for low-key health insurance, say $50,000, and then along with history-taking, they generally do a blood draw and EKG, along with perhaps even an HIV test among others, then you've got some "evidence" if you will of your health status before applying for major medical. Then decide later, if you are approved that is, if you want to keep the life insurance as you go independenty, or get life insurance and health insurance with a prospective employer if you happen to go that route instead of independent. This way family considerations also are taken into account. Overall it's best to go beyond the hand-outs which look so colorful and shiny with smiling faces, and look at the contract benefits, exclusions and limitations of any policy, which they hesitate to show unless you pay your money first. Hope you find the right one.
Insurance

I need to find out if Errrors and Omissions insurance is needed for a contracted medical transcriptionist?


Please let me know if you carry it and how I can obtain it?


Thanks...


 


insurance
No you do not need it and if you did, error and omission insurance is VERY expensive.  I work for a company who requires general business insurance (tho I don't know why) and it costs me $168/year which I write off as a business expense but is still a waste of money in my opinion.
PIP INSURANCE

Everyone who lives in Florida should be aware that the PIP insurance as we know it is soon to expire on 10/1/07.  Please go to the web site http://www.wpbf.com/index.html.  In the center, scroll down a little in the middle is a survery that asks Do you think personal injury protection (PIP) should be eliminated?  Please go on line and vote NO.  Send this email to everyone you know.  We want hundreds of votes.


Also, please send a letter to Governor Charlie Crist,o to Speaker Marco Rubio and Senate President Ken Pruitt.  You can find their email addresses on MyFlorida.com.  It is very important that they add this to their agenda on 6/12/07 for their special session.


 


Thanks for your help. 


Insurance
I was in a similar position, needed insurance for just a short period until new insurance kicked in.  I went to the United Healthcare insurance site and they have "gap" insurance that you can use for anywhere from 1 to 12 months I believe.  It sure beats the high expense of COBRA and should get you through.
insurance

 


Yes, unfortunately I do know what happens!  My husband has no insurance, but usually gets care through the VA.  In April, he had an emergency, ended up with a pacemaker, a gazillion tests, doctors, two hospitals, ambulance, etc.  Over $59,500.00 out of pocket expenses.  If the VA does not pay (it is with their review board), we will be paying until we die.  Some are taking as little as $25.00 a month, others are waiting for VA and then may reduce the charges somewhat.  It is very scary to be without insurance.  Try to get something for major hospital stays, surgeries, etc.  Also, short term and long term disability are good.  If you have any type of chronic condition, forget it.  I have diabetes and hypertension both - cannot get coverage anywhere - I have tried several times, so I can be flexible/part time.  Good Luck and God Bless You.


E&O Insurance

I bought a policy from State Farm.  It cost me $257 for the year.  I really have never heard of being able to cover it from home owner's policy, not unless it is for a small amount.  My policy consists of $250,000.


I would call SF and ask them about it.


 


Good Luck!!!


E&O Insurance

Are you a contractor for the hospital?  First, you need to make sure you know what limits they are requiring.  If they are requiring E&O ins., then they should have something in writing about the limits.  This is expensive insurance.  I used to be a CSR for an insurance agency. 


It's not something that can be obtained through your homeowner's insurance.  Homeowner's insurance is occurance-based general liability (and property) insurance, whereas E&O insurance is claims-made liability.  Specifically it covers you if you get sued because of an error or an omission that you do that causes harm to someone. 


It surprises me that the hospital is requiring it, though.  The doctors have to sign off on the reports that you type, thereby removing the liability from you and placing it on themselves.


E&O Insurance
I believe that $100,000 is sufficient, but I believe that most companies do not want to be involved in a lawsuit if something happens.  They only want the contractor to be responsible.
Insurance
Why not just contact Aetna directly? Blue Cross/Blue Shield is pretty approachable. They will send you brochures detailing their policies.
Insurance for ICs
What insurance co. does anybody use as an IC?  I will be having to find something soon.  Thanks
Insurance for IC
If you're 50 or older you can get ins. through AARP if you're a member. Premiums aren't great, but probably better than most private polices.
Regarding insurance for individuals..
Speaking as a self-employed transcriptionist and a former medical insurance billing person, I can tell you that Mega, Fortis, which I think are both offered by NASE, are not great insurance plans. They hardly pay for anything and their preminums are no cheaper than your local Blue Cross. I worked in a doctor's office and did billing to these companies and felt bad for the patients with these insurances. They ended up paying a lot out of their own pockets. Personally, our family got a rate quote with our local Blue Cross and it was cheaper and better coverage. They do have PPO plans with copays etc.. let me know if you have anymore questions.
questions about MQ insurance
I am an IC right now and for my insurance I had to name just about every illness or hospital visit I ever have had, and if I made an 'oops' or if there is a discrepency, they can drop me at their leisure, which is scary, so i've decided to join MQ full time to get benefits.  Will this insurance cover preexisting conditions, no questions asked, since i'm a full time employee with a company?  Do I just choose what coverage I want, and what are the choices?  If any of you who have insurance with MQ can tell me what to expect, i'd appreciate it, thanks! 
Re: Health insurance
Of note: When I was working in a doctor's office, we had a patient, who went to a hospital ER approved by her insurance, unfortunately, the doctor treating her did not accept her insurance. It was still in litigation the last I was aware. So tell me; how are you suppose to protect yourself in this instance....say you are comatose or unresponsive upon arrival....???
Health Insurance

Does anyone have any information on health insurance for ICs? I am a new MT and have only been working for three months, and unfortunately the company that I work for does not offer benefits.  If anyone has any information I would really appreciate it.


Oh! By the way I know about Blue Cross Blue Shield, and will not consider going through them. They are way too expensive and they do not cover any pre-existing conditions.


 


health insurance
I'm afraid your stuck honey! There are NO companies that provide health insurance for ICs. Sorry ):
THIS IS AN MLM PLAN, NOT INSURANCE.
MY FORMER COWORKER TRIED TO RECRUIT ME FOR IT.  I'VE SEEN ALL THEIR INFORMATION ON THE "INSURANCE".  I REPEAT, IT IS NOT INSURANCE.  IT IS A DISCOUNT PLAN; HOWEVER, NOBODY IN MY ENTIRE STATE ACCEPTS IT.  PEOPLE ARE JUST TRYING TO RECRUIT OTHERS TO MAKE MONEY OFF OF THEM.
Health Insurance
I just enrolled my 12 year old daughter in an AETNA insurance plan. They offer plans just for children and offer 3 different HMO's.  I picked the best of the 3, with a 10.00 copay and no referrals, for $105.00 per month. Can't beat that!
But Ga, I got stung really bad by MQ with insurance. They would

decent (decent being the key word here) reports to make the require 12,000 lines per pay period, and I would have $300-$400 lines suddenly taken out of my pay, and then it would take several pay periods before I'd be allowed back with insurance that was co-payed with them.


Also, it always struck me odd, that they never raised my pay when I told them to change me from EMPLOYEE to Statutory Employee.  I asked and asked and no answer.


The other day I asked for anything written with description of their policies on insurance, "no" work situations for both Employee and SE, and they denied being able to provide either.


I'd be real careful when going to work for this company. 


Needless to say I don't work for them anymore.  I was left high and dry way too many times, with no contract from them or things in writing of company policies when I was employee.  The contract they sent for the SE classification was invalid and they would never send anything in writing that I cared to sign that represented the conditions they wanted me to work under from the get-go.


Can anyone tell me what Medware insurance
rates are for 2 people (me & hubby)?
Thanks!
Medical Insurance??

I am looking at moving back to working from home, I am currently 'in-house' working for a hospital clinic but I need more flexibility for my children's schedules.


I have a decent lead on an IC position, but I am trying to figure out if I can find/afford health care.  I really only need catastrophic type care and plan to pay for my own routine care.


Does anyone know of a decent insurance company??


 


Thanks VT_MT


Health insurance - HELP?!!
Does anyone know of any health insurance I can get? 55-year-old MT (good health)& asking through web and/or phone is a nightmare.  Does anyone have GOOD health insur. for a nominal cost? (& dental/vision if have). A few yrs ago I heard of some "upcoming" health ins. for MTs for 1-200/mth (!!?) but never heard again.  I really need health insurance.  Please help if you can; am sick of brokers & agents who do nothing but give the runaround.  Currently in San Diego but may go back to KY next year (home).  Thx again!
How are their insurance rates?
nm
Insurance - Healthy NY
Has anyone ever used this company for health insurance?  Hypertype told me their girls use it as IC's - that the rates are good.  But I see you can't make more than 23k per year.  How can you use plan and work f/t doing MT ?   thanks guys
Pet insurance question
We just adopted a lovely little Lab mix from the SPCA and she came with a free month of pet health insurance.  I debated whether to get it with our last dog, who turned out to have a zillion health problems and cost us a mint before we finally had to put him down at age 2-1/2.  I'm tempted to keep this insurance on this new dog.  It's really pretty inexpensive and covers 6000 different illnesses and situations including surgeries and accidents.  Anybody ever had pet insurance and did it turn out to be worthwhile?
insurance agents do this

as well as doctors and others.  I agree that a business has more value if you are talking about an office with equipment and established client base.  My insurance agent retired last year and sold his business, which was essentially just his client list and their accounts since he ran his business out of his home.  No idea what he sold it for, but I got a letter telling me about the exchange.  There is the risks there that the clients will choose not to stay with the new agent, but many do like me who doesn't want the hassle of looking for a new one.  But I think it is a little different in your situation.  You probably have a contract with your client, which insurance agents don't have, and whomever you sold your client to would most likely have to make a new contract, which the doctor may or may not want to do with someone you just bring it.  Then again, big MTSOs sell off their businesses and it all seems to work out, so maybe it would for you, too. 


Insurance agents

They are somewhat different as your insurance coverage is with a larger company and they only act as the agent and get a commission.   When your policy comes up for renewal that insurance agent gets a commission from that company.  But your actual business is with the insurance company.   One of the companies that I subcontracted with sold out but again they had an office, machines, computers, etc.  They also did not let the clients know that it was being sold to new owners for at least six months because they were afraid that some clients would pull their accounts.    But they had the same people working.  But with a small MTSO we rarely have contracts, on a month to month.  One of mine does stipulates that I do not subcontract out and if I were to quit they would find their own replacement -- it is verbal but I would abide by it.  That is how I got it.  But she is talking about a business work probably a couple of thousand a month income if that, and she is not selling anything tangible except for a client who may or may not chose to stay, I would not go for it.    I like better odds than that when gambling.   Again, that is why I suggested subcontracting for a while to see how everything works out.