On Wednesday I went to my doctor’s office. I checked in with the receptionist. She shoved a form in my face and told me to sign it and handed me a pen. I told her that I don’t sign anything unless I’m given ample time to review it. She said, “Fine. Just make sure you give it to me before you leave.”
I sat in the lobby, waiting for my doctor to come get me, and took time to review the document that the receptionist shoved in my face.
The document contained the following phrases:
“I understand Hospital X is not responsible for ensuring that I understand which services are covered or are not considered medically necessary by my insurance carrier….”
“Hospital X is authorized to access credit bureau files and reports now and in the future for collcetion purposes.”
“I understand that I am liable to Hospital X for all related charges, whether or not covered by insurance.”
After spending several minutes reviewing the document I approached the receptionist and asked, “What will happen if I refuse to sign this document????”
She gave me a puzzled look as if no one had ever been so bold as to refuse to sign all of their rights and privileges away.
I asked, “Will your hospital refuse to provide me with medical treatment if I don’t sign this piece of paper?”
She answered, “No.
I questioned, “Will you still be able to bill my insurance company for this visit and receive payment if I don’t sign this document?”
She replied, “Yes.”
I said, “Then I refuse to sign this document.”
She said, “Okayyyyyy….but the next time you come in we’re going to ask you to sign it again.
I stated, “Fine. I will refuse to sign it again.”
Do most people just sign their rights away???? I can’t believe this crap. Hospitals get away with this @#$% because people let them. I’ve had it. Enough is enough. I’m not letting these bastards take my rights and get me down.
