How to stop a med center from billing me.

[Badgered]

First off, we're retired, insured by an Aetna Medicare HMO policy which requires referrals for specialist visits.
One visit seemed to have a standing referral in place, the people at the sign-in desk are quite careful about making sure that a current one is in effect.
Turns out that there was none active for that visit but we were not asked to sign a "we'll pay the bill" waiver if no referral was in place.
That "sign a waiver" option was offered for one other visit where we thought a referral was in place but was not and we cancelled that visit at their desk rather than signing the document.
Now we receive monthly bills for the declared amount. The insurance company will not pay it as, "there was no referral".
We spoke with a billing person at the med center who could not produce a signed waiver for the visit in question. Therefore, it would seem that they are on the hook for the amount, a loss to them.
So, what do I need to do to have this billing problem corrected, the redundant monthly bills ended? It's only for about 500 USD (but, remember, we're retired), I expect that if I hire a lawyer I'd wind up spending that at least.
Any suggestions?
sign me, Badgered

 

[ElleMD]

You received the benefit, therefore you owe for it. Typically the waivers are not per visit but more of a blanket policy to inform patients they are ultimately responsible. It is also the responsibility of the patient to make sure that any referrals needed are indeed sought and approved.

 

[army judge]

First off, we're retired, insured by an Aetna Medicare HMO policy which requires referrals for specialist visits.
One visit seemed to have a standing referral in place, the people at the sign-in desk are quite careful about making sure that a current one is in effect.
Turns out that there was none active for that visit but we were not asked to sign a "we'll pay the bill" waiver if no referral was in place.
That "sign a waiver" option was offered for one other visit where we thought a referral was in place but was not and we cancelled that visit at their desk rather than signing the document.
Now we receive monthly bills for the declared amount. The insurance company will not pay it as, "there was no referral".
We spoke with a billing person at the med center who could not produce a signed waiver for the visit in question. Therefore, it would seem that they are on the hook for the amount, a loss to them.
So, what do I need to do to have this billing problem corrected, the redundant monthly bills ended? It's only for about 500 USD (but, remember, we're retired), I expect that if I hire a lawyer I'd wind up spending that at least.
Any suggestions?
sign me, Badgered

ElleMD gave you what I know to be accurate counsel.
I will add that some seniors have reported to me, I did not verify these reports, that some seniors contacted Medicare about charges similar to yours.
Upon explaining the situation to Medicare (or the supplemental insurer), this "confusion" was corrected and the benefit provided at the appropriate cost to the consumer.
Will it work for you?
You will have to try it to see if it can help you.

 

[Betty3]

Someone has to pay for the benefit received - they deserve to be paid. The patient is always ultimately responsible for any bills due & not paid by ins.

 

[Badgered]

Well, thank you all for replying. Not what I wanted to hear, but will abide by your council.