Your Rights Under the "No Surprises Act"
As of January 1, 2022, the No Surprises Act requires healthcare providers, including psychotherapists, to offer clients who are uninsured or deciding not to use their insurance a Good Faith Estimate (GFE) of the expected costs of their services. This law aims to protect you from unexpected and high out-of-network charges.
If you're looking for services without insurance, you will get a Good Faith Estimate of the cost before your first session. This helps you know what your financial responsibility is from the start.
Your Rights:
- Right to a Good Faith Estimate: If you are uninsured or choosing to pay out of pocket, you have the right to receive a written estimate of the expected costs for your treatment.
- Timing of the Estimate: You should get the GFE at least one (1) business day before your first scheduled session. This estimate will give you an idea of the anticipated costs based on the services discussed during your initial appointment.
- Right to Dispute Charges: If the actual cost of your treatment is $400 or more above the GFE, you have the right to challenge those charges.
- Save Your GFE: Make sure to keep a copy of your Good Faith Estimate for your records, as it can be useful if there are any billing issues.
If you have any questions about the No Surprises Act or your right to a Good Faith Estimate, please visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises.
If you plan to use your insurance, the No Surprises Act does not apply to you. However, it’s always a good idea to check your benefits with your insurance.