Business Office

We know that often the most complex parts of your hospital experience are the billing and insurance details. Methodist Hospital's Business Office staff is dedicated to provide the close personal attention that you need to make the resolution of your account as convenient as possible. If you have questions or concerns about your insurance or billing, we encourage you to call us at (626) 898-8000. The Business Office is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Financial Arrangements

How am I billed for services?

When you preregister, a billing account is set up in your name. All hospital charges will be made on one bill, including itemized charges for laboratory tests, radiology (X-rays) and pharmacy items. If you had certain tests or treatments in the hospital, you may receive bills from physicians who you did not see in person. These bills are for professional services rendered by these doctors in diagnosing and interpreting test results while you were a patient at Methodist Hospital. Pathologists, radiologists, cardiologists, anesthesiologists, emergency physicians and other specialists perform these services and are required to submit separate bills. If you have questions about these bills (that is, bills that did not originate from the hospital), please call the number printed on the statement you receive.

What will my insurance cover?

All insurance plans are private contracts between patients and their insurance companies. As a courtesy, we will attempt to verify your coverage and secure payment from your insurance company, but financial responsibility for payment of the hospital bill is yours. Please review your insurance plan carefully, as many plans require preadmission authorization from your insurance company and/or second opinions. You are responsible for meeting these requirements to maintain your coverage.

Do I need to pay a deposit?

When you arrive at the hospital to check in for service, please be prepared to pay the difference, if any, between your verified insurance benefits and the estimated charges for your services. Your actual charges may be more or less than the estimated charges. If they are less, you will a receive a refund.

If you do not have hospital insurance, you will be asked to pay the estimated charges for your service when you register. You can pay by cash, personal check, debit card, MasterCard, Visa, American Express or Discover.

Your deposit is for your hospital care and does not include your physician's charges or those of additional consulting physicians, including the anesthesiologist.

For your convenience, Methodist Hospital provides financial counselors to answer your questions concerning payment arrangements, insurance coverage, uncompensated care, or to assist you in applying for Medi-Cal, Victims of Crime or Charity programs. They are able to come to your room, if needed. If you have any questions regarding the hospital's financial policies, your ability to pay or related concerns, please call (626) 898-8000 and ask to speak to a financial counselor.

If you do not have health insurance and worry that you may not be able to pay in full for your care, we may be able to help. Learn more about financial assistance.