Billing & Insurance FAQ

Healthcare expenses are often unexpected or may seem overwhelming as a medical condition is discovered. The Patient Financial Services Department is committed to assisting patients with payment options that will meet family budget needs. Many patients do qualify for assistance with medical expenses or assistance with payment options.

You may contact our Patient Financial Services Department at 812-376-5315 or via our Billing Questions form. 

Below is a list of frequently asked questions.

Why did I receive multiple statements for my hospital visit?

You will receive one bill from the hospital for services received. You will receive a separate bill from any physician specialists you might see, such as radiologists, emergency room physicians, anesthesiologists, surgeons, etc. These specialists are legally required to submit separate bills for their services.

What insurance plans does Columbus Regional Hospital accept?

Columbus Regional Hospital has contracts with a variety of health insurance and managed care providers. To see an updated listing of current providers please visit our in-network health plans page. For information about coverage on a specific treatment, please contact your insurance provider.

What is Columbus Regional Hospital's payment policy?

CRH will send a statement for the balance you are responsible for. Once you have received your statement payment in full is due. CRH does offer interest free payment plans and has a financial assistance program for those that qualify. You can contact Customer Service at 812-376-5315, Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:00am and 4:30pm if you would like to discuss either of these options. You can also obtain a printable financial application with instructions to complete and return for review of assistance approval. More information is available on our Financial Assistance page.

How do I file a claim with my insurance company?

The hospital will assist you in collecting your insurance benefit by filing a claim to your insurance on your behalf. We expect final payment from your insurance company within 60 days of discharge. If your insurance company has not paid as expected, you should contact them directly. Columbus Regional Hospital is acting solely as a billing agent, and we cannot guarantee insurance benefits. You are responsible for the timely payment of the hospital bill even if you have third-party benefits.

Will I be able to receive care at Columbus Regional Hospital even if I don't have insurance?

Columbus Regional Hospital is committed to providing access to quality health service for the community including the uninsured and the under-insured. Please contact our Patient Account Representatives for information on our assistance and charity programs. More information is available on our Financial Assistance page.

Who can help me navigate options if I am eligible for health insurance through the Affordable Care Act Marketplace or Medicare?

Navigating the ACA Health Insurance Marketplace or Medicare enrollment can be challenging. WellConnect is available at no cost to help answer questions, determine eligibility, and assist in enrollment. Connection Specialists are available by phone Monday-Friday 8:00am – 5:00pm at 812-376-5136 or email at [email protected].

What are my rights and protections against surprise medical bills?

When you get emergency care or get treated by an out-of-network provider at an in-network hospital or ambulatory surgical center, you are protected from surprise billing or balance billing.

Learn more about balance billing and your rights 

Obtenga más información sobre la facturación equilibrada

What is provider-based billing?

This is a type of billing for services provided in a clinic/practice, or a department considered to be part of the hospital. When a patient receives care at one of these specific Columbus Regional Health locations, it will result in a hospital facility charge for outpatient services and/or procedures, and a professional charge for those services. The charges will be reflected on the billing statement for services provided in hospital-based outpatient clinics.

What is a hospital-based outpatient clinic?

Hospital-based outpatient clinics are service locations that are considered a department of the hospital. These locations don’t necessarily have to be located in the hospital facility, as clinics located miles away from the main hospital campus may still be considered part of the hospital. When you see a healthcare provider or receive services in a location that is a hospital-based outpatient clinic, you are seen as being treated within the hospital from a billing and regulatory perspective, as these offices are now considered a department of the hospital.

What is the difference between hospital-based outpatient clinics and healthcare services in private practices?

When you see a healthcare provider in a private office setting, there is a professional charge(s). The professional charges cover the provider’s time with the patient, as well as procedures performed. When you see a healthcare provider in a hospital-based outpatient clinic, there is a professional charge(s) and a facility charge(s) that are billed separately. The facility charges cover the use of the room and any medical or technical supplies, equipment and support staff. For patients with insurance, healthcare provider services are processed through insurance under physician benefits, which are generally subject to copay amounts paid by the patient. Hospital services are processed under hospital benefits subject to deductible and coinsurance amounts.

Why has Columbus Regional Health made this change?

Columbus Regional Health has changed to provider-based billing in certain locations as a way to improve the overall quality of care and processes for our patients in different ways including:

  • Building stronger relationships between patients and their healthcare providers
  • Improving communication while offering personalized ways to stay in touch (e.g. MyChart, messaging, and online bill pay)
  • Further coordinating patient care throughout our health system and with other healthcare entities

How does this change impact the patient?

After receiving services at a hospital-based outpatient clinic, patients could receive a statement showing charges for the physician/provider, and charges for the facility.

Who can a patient call with financial questions or concerns?

Columbus Regional Health has team members ready to assist. Please contact our Patient Financial Services Department at 812-376-5315 or visit our billing questions page and submit your billing question and one of our team members will reply in a timely manner.

What can patients do if they are having difficulty paying for healthcare services?

Please visit our financial assistance page to learn more about our financial assistance options or call 812-376-5315 between the hours of 8 am and 4:30 pm Monday thru Friday.

What is an annual wellness visit (AWV)?

  • An AWV is a visit to develop or update a personalized prevention plan and perform a health risk assessment.
  • An AWV is covered once every 12 months.
  • Patients pay nothing for an AWV (if provider accepts assignment).
  • If your provider evaluates additional conditions and treatments/medications during this visit, there may be an additional charge.
Learn More About AWV