In keeping with the federal regulatory policy requirements, mandated by the Department of Health and Human Services and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, St Bernard Hospital charge information is being provided.
The hospital standard charge is the amount the hospital bills an insurer for a service. In most cases, hospitals are reimbursed by insurance companies, Medicare and Medicaid at a much lower rate than the amount charged. Hospital charge information does not necessarily represent a patient’s expected out of pocket financial responsibility. Each patient’s charges are based on a patient’s medical condition, orders from a physician and a patient’s actual insurance coverage.
There are some items that have a varying charge. These are usually pharmacy (drug) and some supply charges. These charges change frequently, based on purchase price.
For our uninsured patients, standard charges are discounted when charges total $300.00 or greater.
Over 95% of St Bernard’s insured patients are covered by government programs such as Medicaid, Medicaid replacement plans (Managed Care Organizations), traditional Medicare or Medicare replacement plans (Medicare Advantage plans). St Bernard does not negotiate rates with these payers. These plans reimburse hospital charges based on very specific payer systems that identify what is covered and not covered and the reimbursement amounts.
Patients are encouraged to contact their insurance provider to understand which charges will be covered and what may be the patient’s responsibility based on their policy.
The charges listed are for hospital services (inpatient and outpatient) only. All physicians that practice at St Bernard Hospital are independent contractors and will bill for their services separately from the hospital.
We are here to help you understand your benefits and services and will be glad to assist or answer any questions. Please contact us at 773-962-4421.
