Good Faith Estimate

The “No Surprises” Act

Under the new federal law effective January 1st, 2022, health care providers need to give an estimate of their bill for health care items and services before those items or services are provided.

Patient Rights

Patients have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate (GFE) for the total expected cost of any health care items or services upon request or when scheduling such items or services. This includes related costs like medical tests, prescription drugs, equipment, and hospital fees.

If you schedule a health care item or service at least 3 business days in advance, make sure your health care provider or facility gives you a GFE in writing within 1 business day after scheduling. If you schedule a health care item or service at least 10 business days in advance, make sure your healthcare provider or facility gives you a GFE in writing within 3 business days after scheduling. You can also ask any health care provider or facility for a GFE before you schedule an item or service. If you do, make sure the healthcare provider or facility gives you a GFE in writing within 3 business days after you ask.

If you receive a bill that is at least $400 more for any provider or facility than your GFE from that provider or facility, you can dispute the bill.

Make sure to save a copy or picture of your GFE and the bill.

For More Information

For questions or more information about your right to a Good Faith Estimate, visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises/consumers, email [email protected], or call 1-800-985-3059.