Linda Brandwin, R.N. Linda Brandwin is a registered nurse and a medical billing and claims specialist. For the past 10 years she has worked directly with insurance companies to give advice and guidance to the health care consumer. Readers may send email or write Linda Brandwin at 5500 Single Oak Hill Ct., Woodbridge, VA 22192.

Research options for reducing mother's bills
Oct. 17, 2003

Q: My mother is totally disabled and only has Medicare. She has been very sick with new health problems lately. The hospital and the doctor keep sending her bills. If they take Medicare, why does she still owe? Is there any help for her prescriptions? She is 57 years old.

A: Medicare pays eighty percent of the allowed amount of the bill. Your mother is responsible for the remaining twenty percent. That is why she keeps receiving bills. Check the bills she is receiving from the doctor and the hospital and be sure they match the amount of money that the explanation of benefits from Medicare says she owes. You must make sure your mother is being billed the correct amount of money.

If paying these bills is a hardship for your mother, call the healthcare providers. They may be able to work out a payment plan your mother can be comfortable with. Perhaps they will even reduce the bills. Since your mother is totally disabled and probably has a limited income, you might want to check to see if she is eligible for Medicaid. Each state has its own program. You can call the Medicaid office yourself or a hospital social worker may be able to assist you.

There are several drug companies that offer discounted or free medicine to people who are financially eligible for their programs. Check with your pharmacist or your healthcare provider, they should be able to provide you with this information. You will have to fill out some applications and provide proof of income through your tax filings. It may seem like a lot of work, but it will be well worth your while.