Your Right to a Good Faith Estimate

If you do not have insurance or are not using it

Under federal law, healthcare providers generally need to give patients who do not have insurance or who are not using insurance an estimate of the bill for medical items and services. You have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate for the total expected cost of non-emergency items or services. This includes related costs such as medical tests, prescription drugs, equipment, and hospital fees, when applicable.

When to request an estimate

Ask your healthcare provider for a written Good Faith Estimate before scheduling an item or service. You can also ask for an estimate from any provider you choose before making an appointment.

When you schedule at least 3 business days in advance, an estimate is generally due within 1 business day after scheduling. When you schedule at least 10 business days in advance, it is generally due within 3 business days after scheduling. An estimate requested before scheduling is generally due within 3 business days of your request. Ask each provider or facility involved about its expected charges.

If your bill is higher than the estimate

If a bill from a provider or facility is at least $400 more than that provider's or facility's Good Faith Estimate, you may be eligible to dispute the bill through the federal patient–provider dispute resolution process. The dispute generally must be started within 120 calendar days of the date on the initial bill. Keep a copy or photograph of your estimate and your bills.

A Good Faith Estimate is not a contract and does not obligate you to obtain services. It is an estimate, not a guarantee of the final charge, and unforeseen care may affect costs. It does not replace protections or billing rules that otherwise apply.

Questions and official information

For questions about your right to a Good Faith Estimate, visit CMS's No Surprises information or call 1-800-985-3059. To ask about an estimate for care, contact the treating provider. NBJPN Holdings can be contacted for general inquiries about Omni; confirm the billing provider and available services before scheduling.

• CMS: No Surprises protections and Good Faith Estimates