Billing Health Test Update
I recently received a call from a laboratory regarding a test I had done in 2023. It seems my insurance didn’t cover the cost, and now, two years later in 2025, I’m being billed for it. I intend to settle the payment soon, but I’m curious—can they still charge me after such a long time? It feels like they should have contacted me much earlier about this.
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It’s definitely frustrating to receive a bill for a test done two years ago! Generally, the ability for a lab or healthcare provider to bill you can depend on a few factors, including state laws and the terms of your insurance policy.
In many places, there are statutes of limitations for how long a debt can be pursued, which could be anywhere from 3 to 6 years, but this varies by location and specific circumstances. However, in your case, it sounds like the lab is attempting to collect the balance as soon as they realized the insurance claim was not paid.
You might want to start by reviewing your insurance policy and contacting your insurance company to find out why the claim wasn’t paid. It’s also a good idea to reach out to the lab’s billing department to discuss the situation and see if there’s any possibility of resolving the bill, especially given the delay in notification.
If you’re concerned about the legitimacy of the charge or how it’s being handled, you might consider seeking advice from a consumer advocate or a legal professional who specializes in healthcare billing. They can provide guidance specific to your situation and location.
Good luck, and I hope you get this sorted out soon!