Shamokin Area Community Hospital
   
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Bill Payment: Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Where do I pay my bill?

A. You can pay your bill at the hospital's administration building, which is located immediately behind the main hospital building. For your convenience, there is reserved parking next to the entrance of the administration building and it is handicap accessible.

Q. Why did I receive a bill?

A. Various plans have co-pays or deductibles. Please refer to the "Explanation of Benefits" generated by your insurance plan. There are also inclusions to insurance coverage that are considered non-covered.

Q. What if I can't afford to pay my bill?

A. Call us to let us know what your situation is. Payment in full is expected upon receipt of your bill. However we will be happy to work with you to resolve your balance if you are unable to make a full payment immediately.

Please read about our Charity Program.

Based on your financial situation, we can arrange a monthly payment that is mutually agreeable.

ACCESS (insurance through the department of public assistance). You may qualify for health insurance coverage through the state of Pennsylvania for those patients who have unpaid services please contact the Department of Public Assistance. They can be reached at (570) 800-368-8390
Patients who are ineligible for ACCESS may contact Patient Accounts for information regarding our Charity Program. Based on your financial need, we may be able to reduce or forgive the amount you are liable for.
CHIP - The PA's Children Health Insurance Program is for working families who do not have health insurance coverage for their children. CHIP is administered by the PA Insurance Department, but the coverage is through regular health insurance companies. Please call 1-811-989-KIDS to find out if you qualify.

Q. I received a bill from Geisinger System Services, but I had my service done at SACH.

A. For some services you receive at SACH, you might have a professional fee associated with it. For example, if you came to the hospital for a x-ray, the hospital will bill for technical part of a x-ray (technician, film, equipment) while the radiologist who read and interpreted your x-ray will also generate a fee. For SACH, the professional fee is generated by Geisinger System Services.

Q. I received a questionnaire from my insurance company asking me about "Coordination of benefits" information. Do I have to complete and return this form?

A. Yes. Coordination of benefits means that your insurance company thinks you may be covered by another insurance plan in addition to their coverage. By sending you a questionnaire your insurance plan is trying to determine which insurance is responsible for paying your bill first. * Please be aware that if you do not complete the questionnaire and return it your bill will not be paid.

Q. What if I do not agree with my insurance company regarding their processing on non-covered charges? Do I still need to pay the hospital?

A. Yes, you are still responsible to pay for services even if you disagree with your insurance company. Your insurance company will have an appeal or grievance process you may pursue.

How to contact us:

The Patient Accounts staff at SACH will gladly submit a bill to your insurance carrier. It is important to be aware of any restrictions that may apply to your specific plan.

If you have questions or concerns about the coverage offered by your health plan, contact your employer or plan administrator.

  1. Does my plan require I utilize a certain network of physicians?
  2. Does my plan require I utilize a certain hospital?
  3. Do I need to obtain referral forms or an authorization for services?
  4. Does my plan have specific requirements for covering emergency care visits?
  5. Is there an appeal or grievance procedure to follow if my bills have not been paid?