Bayonne, N.J.- based CarePoint Health, the company that owns Bayonne Medical Center, is out-of-network for UnitedHealthcare insurance carriers.
CarePoint spokesman Jarrod Bernstein defended higher out-of-network charges as a survival strategy necessary to keep struggling urban hospitals afloat. Mr. Bernstein told I-Team at NBC N.Y. that many payers, UnitedHealthcare included, have not offered the health system “a workable rate of reimbursement that takes into account our obligation to provide care for the underinsured and uninsured.”
UnitedHealthcare said CarePoint care costs are 10 to 12 times higher than area hospitals participating in United’s network, according to the report.
“Out-of-network hospitals should be charging rates that are consistent with other facilities in the community, rather than using emergencies as an opportunity to bill patients excessive amounts,” UnitedHealthcare spokeswoman Mary McElrath-Jones told the I-Team at NBC N.Y.
UnitedHealthcare has paid most of the $17,000 charge. The patient has yet to pay his portion of $1,170.
More articles on payer issues:
Federal officials seek funds from states that stumbled with health exchanges: 4 things to know
New HealthCare.gov premium fees are pushing states to consider private sector alternatives
BJC to close Missouri hospital: 5 things to know
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.
