Our staff also informs the patient and family about the financial impact of treatment. Before treatment begins, Gaylord makes a good faith attempt to provide the patient with an accurate estimate of treatment costs that may not be covered by the patient's insurance.

What does the process involve?

The process verifies that benefits exist, the level of those benefits and the insurance company involved. Investigation reveals how much the patient's policy will pay per day, if treatment restrictions exist and what percentage of the benefits have been used to date.

Upon review, Patient Information Services will also determine:

• whether commercial insurance is involved and Gaylord services are covered in the policy. (Some commercial insurance policies do not include coverage for treatment provided by hospitals, such as Gaylord.)
• whether payment will be made solely by the primary insurance company or whether a secondary insurance company is involved.
• whether the patient's insurance policy is with a managed care organization, and if so, whether the organization will authorize treatment.

Are there any exceptions?

Yes. Gaylord will admit all Title XIX or Title XIX Pending and all patients with spinal cord injuries before financial counseling.

How long does it take to obtain a review of the patient's policy?

Our goal is to provide a quick response - depending on how quickly the insurance company responds to our questions.

Is financial counseling required for outpatient admissions?

Yes. The process is very similar to the one for inpatients. Financial counseling is usually conducted before the patient is scheduled. For outpatients, financial counseling involves working with the insurance companies to see how many visits are covered and how they can be divided among therapies.

Does Gaylord offer charity care?

Yes. Gaylord does not discriminate on the basis of a patient's ability to pay. Gaylord also will work with patients to negotiate methods of payment, such as budget accounts.