Understanding Outstanding Balances & Payments

At MFM Health, our goal is to provide high-quality, compassionate medical care while maintaining clear and fair billing practices. This handout explains what an outstanding balance is, how billing works, and what to expect if a balance remains unpaid.

What Is an Outstanding Balance?

An outstanding balance is any amount you owe for medical services provided by our practice that has not yet been paid. This may include:

• Copayments

• Deductibles

• Coinsurance

• Charges not covered by your insurance

• Previous unpaid balances

You are responsible for understanding your insurance benefits and for paying any portion not covered by your insurance.

Our Billing Process

After your visit:

1. Your insurance is billed (if applicable).

2. Once your insurance processes the claim, you will receive an itemized statement showing:

   • Services provided

   • Charges billed

   • Insurance payments

   • Your remaining financial responsibility

Statements may be sent by mail, email, or through the patient portal.

Payment Expectations

• Payment of outstanding balances is expected in a timely manner.

• In some cases, outstanding balances must be addressed before scheduling future appointments.

• We kindly ask that balances be paid as soon as possible to avoid disruptions in care.

Accepted Payment Methods

We accept:

• Cash

• Check

• Credit or debit cards

• HSA / FSA / HRA cards

• Electronic payments through our secure online patient portal

Payment Plans

We understand that financial challenges can happen.

• If you are unable to pay your balance in full, please contact our billing department as soon as possible.

• Interest-free payment plans may be available and are handled directly through billing.

• Staying current on a payment plan helps prevent further collection actions.

Balance Thresholds

• Balances of $500 or more:

  • You may receive written or phone communication from our billing team.

• Balances of $1,000 or more:

  • Future appointments may require an active payment plan before scheduling.

Our billing team is happy to work with you to find a solution.

Collections Process

If an outstanding balance remains unpaid despite repeated outreach:

• After three unsuccessful attempts to resolve the balance, your account may be referred to an external collections agency.

• All collection activities comply with applicable state and federal laws, including the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA).

Discharge from the Practice

Failure to resolve an outstanding balance, including refusal to pay or failure to comply with a payment plan, may result in discharge from the practice. Any discharge decision is made carefully and in accordance with legal and ethical requirements.

Confidentiality & Your Rights

• All billing and medical information is handled confidentially and in compliance with HIPAA.

• We are committed to respectful, compassionate communication at all times.

Questions or Need Help?

If you have questions about your bill or need help setting up a payment plan, please contact our billing department:

Phone: 978-774-2555

We appreciate your trust in MFM Health and thank you for allowing us to be part of your care.

By receiving care at MFM Health, you acknowledge responsibility for payment of services rendered in accordance with this policy.