Good Faith Estimate

The No Surprises Act was passed in December 2020 (Section 2799B-6 of the Public Health Service Act) and took effect on January 1, 2022. The purpose is to protect consumers from obtaining unexpected medical bills.

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The No Surprises Act mandates that healthcare providers are required to give patients who don’t have insurance or are not using insurance a “Good Faith Estimate.” A “Good Faith Estimate” estimates the expected total costs of non-emergency health care services/items. It explains how much your medical care will cost.

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If you don’t have insurance or are not using insurance:

• You have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate for the total expected cost of any non-emergency items or services. This includes related costs like medical tests, prescription drugs, equipment, and hospital fees.

• Make sure your healthcare provider gives you a Good Faith Estimate in writing at least one business day before your medical service or item. You can also ask your health care provider, and any other provider you choose, for a Good Faith Estimate before you schedule an item or service.

• If you receive a bill that is at least $400 more than your Good Faith Estimate, you can dispute the bill.

• Make sure to save a copy or picture of your Good Faith Estimate. 

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Disclaimer:

The information provided by a Good Faith Estimate is only an estimate. Actual services or other charges may differ or change. A Good Faith Estimate is not a contract and is not binding or obligating the provision of services estimated. ​

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