How can I defend myself against a doctor's incorrect billing?
April 13, 2024 | 50,00 EUR | answered by Laura Vollmann
Dear Medical Law Attorney,
I am reaching out to you as I urgently need advice and assistance. My name is Alexander Falk and I recently visited a doctor for a routine examination. However, after the visit, I received a bill that I believe to be incorrect. The doctor has billed for services that were not provided, and the prices for some services seem to be inflated.
I am very concerned about this situation as I am not willing to pay for services that were not rendered to me. I have already tried to contact the doctor to seek clarification, but my concerns were dismissed and I did not receive a satisfactory response.
Now I am wondering how I can challenge this incorrect billing. What legal steps can I take to dispute the bill and defend my rights as a patient? Are there any specific laws or regulations that can help me in this situation?
I would greatly appreciate your assistance in using your expertise and experience to resolve this matter. I feel helpless in this situation and do not know how to proceed. Your support would be of great importance to me.
Thank you in advance for your help.
Sincerely,
Alexander Falk
Dear Mr. Falk,
I understand your concern regarding the incorrect invoice you received after your routine check-up. It is important that you defend your rights as a patient and challenge unjustified billing. In such cases, you have various legal options available to you, which I will explain to you below.
First and foremost, it is important that you formally request the doctor to review the invoice and correct the erroneous items. Clearly outline which services you believe were not provided or were overcharged. Give the doctor a reasonable deadline for resolution, typically 14 days should be sufficient.
If the doctor does not respond to your request or correct the invoice, you have the option to contact the arbitration board for medical liability issues. This board can act as a mediator and try to facilitate an agreement between you and the doctor. If this also does not lead to the desired outcome, you can pursue legal action.
In the event of a legal dispute, you can consult a lawyer specializing in medical law who can provide legal advice and representation in your case. An experienced lawyer can assess whether the doctor's invoice is indeed erroneous and what legal steps can be taken to challenge it. Special laws and regulations in medical law may apply, providing protection for you as a patient.
It is important that you keep your documents carefully and document all steps in writing. This can help strengthen your position and successfully assert your rights in the event of a legal dispute.
I hope this information is helpful to you and supports you in your situation. Do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions or need legal assistance.
Sincerely,
Laura Vollmann
Medical Lawyer
