Many Tools Available to Help You Understand Healthcare Costs

Choosing where to receive healthcare services is an important decision. With so many options available, the choice can sometimes feel overwhelming.

Many factors should be considered when deciding where to get medical care.

The types of treatments and procedures available at different hospitals and healthcare systems should be taken into account, as should the quality of care, patient safety and medical excellence.

Many patients, however, simply – and understandably – want to know, “How much will this cost me?”

Knowing the cost of your care is important. By understanding the financial information surrounding your medical care, including health insurance and out-of-pocket expenses, you can make more informed healthcare decisions.

At Phelps Health, many tools are available to patients, from getting price estimates to finding a health insurance plan that fits your needs to applying for financial assistance to help with medical bills.

Here’s a breakdown of resources for understanding healthcare costs.

Estimate Your Healthcare Cost

With the price estimator tool on Phelps Health MyChart, you can be better informed about your healthcare costs and estimate your out-of-pocket expenses for a variety of services available at Phelps Health.

To ensure the most accurate cost estimate for you or your loved one’s care, make sure you have the following specific information:

• Patient’s personal information
• Insurance information (including insurance card)
• Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) code (a unique number assigned to specific medical services or procedures)

Remember, every patient’s case is unique and requires different levels of care.

Please note that the cost estimate you receive could be more or less than the final bill. Certain factors, such as the actual services performed or changes in your coverage, may affect the actual amount owed.

EnrollU

The Phelps Health EnrollU team is available to help you with any questions about health insurance coverage.

Phelps Health’s certified and licensed navigators and counselors can assist you, whether you are looking to find coverage through the Missouri Health Insurance Marketplace or have questions about Medicare.

You do not have to be a Phelps Health patient to use EnrollU services. For free, local assistance or for more information about finding affordable health insurance, please email EnrollU@phelpshealth.org or call (573) 458-3676.

Zero-Interest Payment Options

Unfortunately, due to various reasons and circumstances, not all patients are able to pay their out-of-pocket medical expenses.

If you need help paying your bill, Phelps Health partners with Commerce Bank to offer patients and families HSF® (Health Services Financing) accounts to help pay outstanding balances. An HSF is similar to a loan, with one monthly payment and a 0% (interest-free) rate.

Financial Assistance

Phelps Health provides medically necessary services to all patients without regard to their financial ability to pay. If you are unable to pay your bill, you may be eligible for financial assistance.

To apply for financial assistance, call (573) 458-7715 and ask for a financial assistance packet to be sent to you. Packets are available online or can be picked up at the Cashier’s Office located near the Main Entrance of Phelps Health Hospital.