Good Faith Estimate
Your right to an estimate
If you do not have health insurance, or you are not using insurance to pay for scheduled healthcare, you generally have the right under federal law to receive a Good Faith Estimate of expected charges. Tell the practice before scheduling if you will be paying without insurance. These estimate and dispute rules generally do not apply to people enrolled in Medicare, Medicaid, TRICARE, or other federal healthcare programs, which have separate protections.
What a Good Faith Estimate means
A Good Faith Estimate is a written explanation of expected charges for healthcare items or services. It is not a bill, a guarantee of insurance coverage, or a requirement to proceed with care. It is based on the information known when it is prepared. Unexpected or separately scheduled services can affect the final cost. Emergency care is not subject to the advance estimate process.
When to expect it
- If you schedule care 3 to 9 business days in advance, the estimate generally must be provided within 1 business day after scheduling.
- If you schedule care 10 or more business days in advance, it generally must be provided within 3 business days after scheduling.
- If you request an estimate before scheduling, it generally must be provided within 3 business days after your request.
Scheduling care only 0 to 2 business days in advance does not trigger the same advance-estimate requirement. Ask about expected costs even when a visit is arranged at short notice.
Ask about the full scope of care
Review the planned items or services and expected charges with the practice. Ask what is included and whether another provider or facility could bill you separately. Current federal guidance advises requesting an estimate from each provider or facility involved in your care. If your planned services change, ask whether an updated estimate is needed.
If a bill is at least $400 higher
If a provider or facility bills you at least $400 more than its Good Faith Estimate, you may qualify for the federal patient-provider dispute resolution process. The threshold is assessed for that provider or facility, rather than by combining unrelated bills. Eligibility requirements apply, including having received an estimate before care and starting the dispute within 120 calendar days of the date on the initial bill.
Keep copies of your estimate and bills. Review the official CMS dispute instructions for the complete requirements, submission process, and current administrative fee. You may also contact the practice to discuss a billing question. Doing so does not extend the federal filing deadline.
Official information and help
For more information, visit the CMS guide to medical bill rights when not using insurance. You can ask the practice about obtaining your estimate and understanding the charges before your appointment.
Request an estimate
Contact Renew Wellness & Regenerative Medicine using the details below. Call first if your question requires medical information.
Renew Wellness & Regenerative Medicine
528 48th St. Court East, Bradenton, FL 34208
Phone: (941) 259-4544
Email: regenmed941@gmail.com