MyChart - Login Page (2024)

General FAQs

1. What is a deductible? A-co-insurance?

   A deductible is the initial amount of "covered" health costs that you pay before your insurance plan begins reimbursem*nt. A co-insurance is the portion of your health care expenses not covered by insurance. A co-insurance is usually a percentage figure, like 10% or 20%.

2. Who is responsible for paying my bill?

   The hospital will bill your insurance company; however, you are ultimately responsible for making certain that your bill is paid. If a balance remains after your insurance has issued a payment or a denial, payment is due immediately upon receipt of your bill.

3. What other bill will I receive?

   Riverside's hospital bills do not include fees for any physician services, including but not limited to the Emergency Room Physician, Radiologist, Pathologist, and Anesthesiologist. You may receive additional bills from physicians who helped with your care while you were a patient. Some of these physicians may not be participating providers in the same insurance plans and networks as the hospital, which may result in the patient having a greater financial responsibility for the services provided by these health care professionals. Questions about coverage or benefit levels should be directed to your insurance plan. If you have questions regarding any of your physician bills, please call the telephone number printed on the physician's bill.

4. Why didn't my insurance pay?

   Please contact your insurance directly for this information.

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Billing and Payment FAQs

1. How do I get an estimate of my charges?

   Contact us on-line or call us at 1-815-935-7539. Representatives are available Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (CST).

2. Can you mail me a copy of my itemized bill?

   Yes. You can access this information online. Or call a Customer Service Representative at 1-815-935-7539, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (CST).

3. What is my current account balance?

   You can view your statement online when you sign-up for MyChart. You may also request this information by calling Customer Service at 1-815-935-7539, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (CST).

4. What if my account has been referred to a collection agency?

   Accounts are referred to collection when the balances due remain unpaid. The hospital sends billing statements and collection letters for up to 120 days allowing you to either pay the account or establish a payment plan. You will be notified in writing when any account is going to be transferred to a collection agency and you will be allowed sufficient time to take corrective action.

5. Why do I get a separate bill for hospital services?

   Patients will no longer be receiving a separate bill for their hospital visit/rmg physician visit due to the new consolidated statements. They will still receive separate bills for all other professional services.

6. Does my balance with Riverside's 'hospital bill' include the physician bill?

   This will need to be revised due to the consolidated statements. However, patients will still receive separate bills from radiologists, anesthesiologists, pathologists, ERD physicians and surgeons.

7. Who can I contact with questions about my statement?

   Patient Financial Services representatives are available to help you via email and over the phone with any questions or concerns you may have about your bill. To view your bill online, sign-up for MyChart, to contact us by telephone, call 1-815-935-7539. Representatives are available Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. (CST).

8. Will the hospital bill my insurance company for me?

   Yes. Riverside will bill the insurance information you gave at time of registration.

9. Will the hospital file my worker's compensation claims for me?

   Yes. The hospital will bill worker's compensation insurance and make all appropriate first report of injury information available to the liability carrier and third party administrators. The patient will be responsible for payment if the claim is denied by the workers compensation carrier, the patient's employer or the Industrial Commission. The patient should also respond to all requests for information to avoid delays and denials for payment.

10. Why is everything so expensive?

    The hospital strives to provide our patients with the very best medical care utilizing the latest technology. Our fee schedules reflect the cost of delivering the level of health care that our patients desire and deserve. Our prices are driven by the increasing costs associated with delivering high quality health care.

11. There are charges on my bill that I did not have or I dispute. What should I do?

    Please contact Patient Financial Services and an inquiry will be sent to the audit team who will review your medical record to ensure the documentation substantiates the charge. If the charge is not supported, it will be credited from the bill and a corrected claim will be submitted to your insurance.
    You may submit the dispute in writing to:

    Riverside Medical Center
    Patient Financial Services
    350 N Wall Street,
    Kankakee, IL 60901.
    You may also call us at 1-815-935-7539. Representatives are available Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (CST).

12. Why did I receive more than one bill?

    Patients admitting or attending RMG physicians will be billed on one consolidated statement along with their hospital service.

13. It has been several weeks since my hospital visit, why haven't I received a bill?

    We will always bill the medical insurance on file first. Once the insurance has paid their portion, any remaining amount will be billed to you. If your insurance company pays in full you may not even receive a statement and you will only have your explanation of benefits from your insurance carrier to refer to.

14. I received a statement, but all it shows are totals. Can I have an itemized bill?

    Yes. Itemized bills are available upon request and online. Contact us at 1-815-935-7539. Representatives are available Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (CST).

15. How do I know that the amount you are billing me is the correct amount?

    Once your insurance carrier pays their portion of the bill; they will send you an explanation of benefits (EOB) to show how the claim was paid. You should compare your EOBs to your hospital statement. How the carrier paid the claim is based on its contract with the hospital and its contract with you. If you feel the insurance company should have paid a higher amount, please contact your insurance company directly for resolution.

16. My hospital statement had an adjustment amount. What was that for?

    Insurance carriers negotiate hospital charge discounts. The amount of the discount is specific to each carrier. When the insurance pays its portion, the contractual allowance (discount) is posted to reflect the true amount due from the patient. Contractual adjustment can be either a deduction or addition to the amount of actual charges billed.

17. My account has been referred to an outside collection agency. Can I view my statement?

    If your account has been referred to an outside collection agency; you must contact that agency to see all the activities being credited to your account. The hospital will also keep the details of your payments but will no longer produce statements on balances due.

    Receivable Management Partners
    P.O. Box 630844
    Cincinnati, OH 45263-0844
    Telephone: 1-888-400-6028

    See Also

    Riverside Medical Center - Kankakee, ILRiverside Medical Center, Kankakee, IL

18. I went to the emergency department with a stomach ache. The registration representative could not tell me how much this would cost me until I saw the physician. She wouldn't say if my insurance would cover the bill. Why couldn't I find this out before seeing the physician and incurring a bill?

    When someone visits the emergency department it is implied that he/she has a medical emergency. Very specific regulations require that we first determine the extent of the medical emergency before we can discuss any financial questions. This means the triage nurse and the emergency medicine physician must first see the patient. We appreciate that this restriction can be frustrating; however, the regulations are there to insure everyone who visits the emergency department will be seen regardless of their ability to pay.

19. What is the difference between an observation and inpatient category on my bill?

    Your physician and sometimes your insurance determines whether you will be categorized as observation or inpatient. Insurance plans pay differently for each category. The hospital must abide by the physician order and bill accordingly. Your status may change based on your clinical conditions and results from diagnostic tests.

20. When do I become responsible for my bill?

    You are legally responsible for your bill at the time you receive hospital services. Deposits may be requested at the time of service or at discharge. The hospital requires all patient balances be paid, or acceptable payment arrangements made, upon receipt of your bill.

21. How will I know what portion of the bill I should pay?

    The amount you owe can be found in the box on the upper right-hand corner of your bill. Your bill should identify the total charges, the amount submitted to insurance, and the amount you owe. If insurance has paid part of your claim, the statement will identify the amount paid by insurance and the amount you owe. The explanation of benefits from your insurance company will also indicate which charges you are responsible for. Please read the "Message" box on your statement for additional information.

22. Why didn't my insurance pay?

    Please contact your insurance directly for this information.

23. What forms of payment do you accept?

    You may pay by cash, check, credit/debit card or money order. Riverside accepts Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express. Make check or money order payable to Riverside Medical Center. Please include your account number. Mail the payment to:

    Riverside Medical Center
    Attn: Patient Financial Services
    350 N. Wall Street
    Kankakee, IL60901

    Payment by credit/debit card is accepted online.
    

    If payment in full is not possible, you can make payment arrangements by contacting Patient Financial Services through this website or by calling Patient Financial Services at 1-815-935-7539. Representatives are available Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. (CST).

    As a service to our community, Riverside provides care at a reduced rate or without charge to eligible persons demonstrating financial need and the inability to pay. To learn more about Riverside's Financial Assistance Program click here or call 1-815-935-7539, Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. (CST).

24. Do I have to pay my co-insurance or deposit at the time of service?

    Yes. You are expected to pay a deposit when services are provided.

25. What will I owe after insurance has paid?

    Insurance contracts vary a great deal depending on allowed services, co-payment amounts, deductibles, and co-insurance. Because of this, it is impossible to know exactly how much your insurance company will pay or how much you will have to pay. Riverside will request that you pay a deposit towards your out-of-pocket expenses at the time of service.
    As a service to our community, Riverside provides care at a reduced rate or without charge to eligible persons demonstrating financial need and the inability to pay. To learn more about Riverside's Financial Assistance Program click here or call 1-815-935-7539, Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. (CST).

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Insurance FAQs

1. Can I add or change the insurance on my account?

   Yes, but if you are adding a managed care plan or HMO coverage that had mandatory pre-certification requirements this coverage cannot be added and billed after the fact. The hospital only bills a managed care plan retroactively if the patient signs a statement that he/she will be responsible for any billed amounts denied by the plan.

2. Should I bring my insurance card with me to the hospital?

   Yes. The information on your insurance card is needed to file a claim with your insurance company or companies. When you register you will be asked for information about your insurance coverage. Additionally, you will be asked to sign related forms. The registration process goes faster when you bring your insurance information with you.

3. Will the hospital file my insurance claim for my current visit?

   Yes. The hospital will continue to submit claims to your insurance company for you. As insurance companies require more information, however, the accuracy of your records is extremely important. Patient Financial Services will facilitate prompt and accurate submission of your health insurance claim; however the patient needs to respond promptly to requests for additional information.

4. My claim was denied. Can I request the hospital resubmit my claim information to my insurance company?

   Typically Patient Financial Services has already attempted to have a denial reversed and is sure the balance is the patient's responsibility. In some special circ*mstances rebilling may be available.

5. My insurance hasn't received my claim. Will you resubmit it for me?

   Yes. Contact us through this site to speak to a Patient Financial Services representative or at 1-815-935-7539. Representatives are available Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (CST)

6. I gave my insurance information to my physician, why don't you have it?

   Your benefit coverage may be different for physician services than it is for hospital services. To ensure that we have the correct information for billing, we will ask to see your insurance card at each visit.

7. I'm covered under my wife's insurance as well as my own. The deductible is less under my wife's insurance. Can the hospital bill her insurance instead of mine?

   Under a provision called coordination of benefits, the hospital is obligated to bill the insurance that would be considered primary for you. Any medical insurance for which you are the primary holder must be billed before any other medical insurance. Riverside will be happy to bill both insurance companies, which will allow them to coordinate your benefits. A deposit to cover out of pocket expenses may be requested at time of service. If any balance due remains, the patient will be billed.

8. Even though I gave my medical insurance, I was later asked for my automobile insurance because my injury was due to an automobile accident. My medical insurance will cover the bill, why is any other insurance needed?

   When we bill your medical insurance for treatment related to an accident, the carrier will want to know if there is any other insurance that may be liable for the bill and generally the hospital must bill the liability carrier first. For Medicare beneficiaries, this is a requirement prior to billing Medicare and one of the reasons the Medicare secondary payer questionnaire must be completed at each visit. If the hospital cannot provide the information at the time of billing, the claim may be delayed, or even denied, until the information is given.

9. How do I follow-up with my insurance company?

   Most insurance company identification cards include a customer service telephone number. Before you call, have available your insurance card, date of service, facility name, original billed amount, patient name and claim number, if applicable. Write down the name of the person you talked to at the insurance company. If the bill has not been paid, find out when the anticipated payment date is, and ask what is needed. If the bill is not paid in the stated timeframe, follow-up with the insurance company again and, if necessary, request to speak to a supervisor. Other key questions you should ask the insurance company customer service representative include the following:

   • Have you received the hospital's bill for these services?
   • Am I covered for these services?
   • When will you pay the hospital for these services?
   • What portion of this bill will I be responsible for paying?
   • What is the status of the account? If paid, ask when and to whom.
10. Do I need to let my insurance company know that I'm going to be in the hospital? And what will they cover?

    We encourage you to check with your insurance company or your employer regarding coverage. Because there are so many types of insurance plans, we do not know if you need prior approval or notification for your hospital stay. Contact your insurance company or your employer with specific questions about what is or is not covered by your insurance plan.

11. Why didn't my insurance cover some services?

    Insurance policies vary on what services are allowed (paid). Your particular policy may not cover a certain service or you may not have met your policy's deductible and/or co-insurance. Your physician should make you aware of the reason they are ordering the test. Patient Financial Services representatives can help you with any other related questions.

12. My newborn roomed in with me, (never left my room), why is there a nursery charge?

    The nursery room charge includes routine newborn supplies, food and nursing care. The charge is not entirely for the physical bed location.

13. How do I know if my insurance company will cover services provided by all professionals (i.e. anesthesiologists, radiologists, and pathologists) involved with my treatment?

    Check with your insurance company or your employer about this. Each professional needs to contract individually with insurance companies and the hospital does not know if each professional is contracted with your insurance company.

14. How will I know if my insurance company has paid my bill?

    At the time your insurance company pays your claim it will issue to you an explanation of benefit (EOB) notice regarding the payment action taken by the plan. If there is a balance due from you after the insurance company has paid its portion, we will send you a statement, or you can view your statement online by logging into your account. This statement should agree with the amount reported to you on your EOB(s) and any balance you are required to pay.

15. What do I do if I disagree with how much my insurance company has paid on my bill?

    If you don't understand what or why your insurance paid the amount that they did, please contact your insurance carrier directly.

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Medicare FAQs

1. What is Medicare?

   Medicare is a Federal health insurance program for people 65 years or older, certain people with disabilities, and people with permanent kidney failure treated with dialysis or a transplant. Medicare has two parts - Part A which is hospital insurance, and Part B which is medical insurance.

2. How can I get a Replacement Medicare card?

   If you lose your card, you can obtain a replacement card by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or online at the Social Security Administration website. Make sure you have your Medicare number ready when you call. You should receive your new card in about four weeks.

3. How can I find out if I have Medicare coverage?

   You must call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 or contact your local Social Security Office to verify your Medicare Part A and Part B coverage. This information can also be found on your red, white, and blue Medicare card.

4. I can't afford my Medicare premiums. What can I do?

   If your income is limited, your State may help pay your Medicare costs such as your premiums and deductibles. Check the Important Phone Numbers page of this website for the phone number of your State Medical Assistance Program. They can help you determine if you are qualified. If you have Medicare Part A, your income is limited, and your financial resources such as bank accounts, stocks, and bonds are not more than $4,000 for an individual, or $6,000 for a couple, you may qualify for assistance as a Qualified Medicare Beneficiary or Specified Low Income Medicare Beneficiary. The Qualified Medicare Beneficiary Program (also known as QMB) pays the Medicare monthly Part B premium, deductibles and coinsurance. The Specified Low Income Medicare Beneficiary Program (also known as SLMB) helps pay the Medicare monthly Part B premium for qualified Medicare beneficiaries.
   http://www2.illinois.gov/hfs/MedicalPrograms/Brochures/Pages/HFS3352.aspx ; As a service to our community, Riverside provides care at a reduced rate or without charge to eligible persons demonstrating financial need and the inability to pay. To learn more about Riverside's Financial Assistance Program click here or call 1-815-935-7539, Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. (CST).

5. Will I automatically be enrolled in Medicare when I turn 65?

   If you are receiving Social Security or Railroad Retirement or disability benefits, you will be automatically enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B. About 3 months prior to your 65th birthday or 24th month of disability, you will be sent an Initial Enrollment Package that will contain information about Medicare, a questionnaire and your red, white and blue Medicare card. If you want both Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance), you should sign your Medicare card and keep it in your wallet. If you don't want Part B coverage, you must put an X in the refusal box on the back of the Medicare card form; sign the form and return it with the card to Social Security at the address shown. You will then be sent a new Medicare card showing that you only have Part A.

6. Does Medicare pay for dental services?

   Medicare does not cover routine dental care or most dental procedures such as cleanings, fillings, tooth extraction or dentures. There are rare cases in which Medicare Part B will pay for certain dental services. In addition, there are some situations in which Medicare Part A will pay for certain dental services delivered on an inpatient basis. You should contact your local Carrier for more information or refer to your Medicare Handbook. Check the Important Phone Numbers page of this website for the phone number. You can get additional information online at http://www.medicare.gov/

7. Who submits my bills to Medicare? How much do I have to pay?

   If you have Traditional Medicare, your doctor or other health care provider will file your claim with Medicare. You'll receive a statement showing how much you'll need to pay. If you do not receive a Medicare statement (Medicare Summary Notice ), you'll need to contact your local carrier to have them send you a copy. Check the Important Phone Numbers page of this website for the phone number of your carrier. If you have supplemental insurance or Medigap, they may pay part of your costs. Check with your supplemental insurance company to find out what they will pay.

8. Who do I contact to change my name and address for Medicare purposes?

   If you have had a recent name or address change, it will need to be reported to the Social Security Administration. Social Security will notify Medicare of the change when they change their records. Their phone number can be found in the Important Phone Numbers page of this website. If you are covered by Traditional Medicare Plan, you should also notify the Part B carrier of your new name or address change. The carrier processes your claims for doctor bills and other medical expenses. Check the Important Phone Numbers page of this website for the phone number of your carrier. If you are in a Medicare managed care plan, you should contact your plan of any name or address changes.

9. What is Medicare + Choice?

   Medicare + Choice is a term used to describe the various health plan options available to Medicare beneficiaries. You may also see references to Medicare Advantage or Medicare Part C.

10. How can I leave a Medicare Health Plan?

    You can leave a plan in one of 3 ways. You can call:

    • the plan you wish to leave and ask for a disenrollment form; or
    • 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) to request that your disenrollment be processed over the phone; or
    • the Social Security Administration or visit your Social Security Office to file your disenrollment request.

    The phone number for the Social Security office in your area can be found in the Important Phone Numbers page of this website. In most cases, you are disenrolled the month after your request is made as long as your request was filed before the 10th day of the month. If your request was made after the 10th of the month, you will be disenrolled the first day of the second calendar month after your request was made. You do not need to fill out a disenrollment form if you decide to join another managed care plan. You will be automatically disenrolled from your old plan when your new plan enrollment becomes effective.

11. What medical supplies and equipment does Medicare Part B cover?

    Medicare Part B helps pay for durable medical equipment such as oxygen equipment, wheelchairs, and other medically necessary equipment that your doctor prescribes to use in your home. Other items covered by Medicare include:

    • arm, leg, back and neck braces
    • medical supplies such as ostomy pouches, surgical dressings, splints and casts
    • breast prostheses following a mastectomy
    • one pair of eyeglasses with an intraocular lens after cataract surgery

    Medicare pays for different kinds of durable medical equipment in different ways. Some equipment must be rented, other equipment must be purchased. Your Durable Medical Equipment Regional Carrier can provide more specific information. Check the Important Phone Numbers page of this website for the phone number for your Durable Medical Equipment Regional Carrier.

12. Does Medicare pay for prescription drugs?

    Prescription Drug coverage is through Medicare Part D. Please refer to your Medicare Handbook.

13. I didn't enroll in Medicare Part B when I turned 65 because I was still working. Can I enroll now?

    You qualify to enroll in Medicare during a Special Enrollment Period if you delayed enrolling in Part B because you were working and had group health insurance through your employer or your spouse's employer. If you sign up during the Special Enrollment Period, you do not have to pay the Part B premium surcharge. Signing up for Medicare Part B will begin your 6 month open enrollment period for buying a Medigap policy. You can enroll in Part B:

    • any month in which you are still covered under your current enrollment; or
    • the 8-month period beginning with either the date your employment ends or the date your group health plan ends, whichever comes first.

    You should contact the Social Security Administration to file an application. The phone number for the Social Security office in your area can be found in the Important Phone Numbers page of this site.

14. I originally refused Medicare Part B when I turned 65. Can I enroll now?

    Anyone who has refused, terminated, or withdrawn from Medicare Part B or Premium Free Part A coverage can enroll again. You can enroll during January, February, or March of each year. This is referred to as the General Enrollment Period. Your Medicare coverage will not begin until July 1st. You may or may not have to pay a premium surcharge. Call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 for an appointment or visit your local Social Security Office to file an application. They will also tell you the amount of any premium surcharge you may have to pay.

15. What is a Medigap policy?

    Supplemental insurance policies are sometimes called Medigap plans. Medigap plans are private health insurance policies that cover some of the costs the Traditional Medicare Plan does not cover. Some Medigap policies will cover services not covered by Medicare such as prescription drugs. Medigap has 10 standard plans called "Plan A" through "Plan J". Each plan has a different set of benefits. The states of Minnesota, Wisconsin and Massachusetts have choices other than "Plan A" through "Plan J". Your State Insurance Department can answer questions about the Medigap policies sold in your area. Check the Important Phone Numbers page of this website for the phone number of your State Insurance Department.

16. Who is eligible for Medicare Part A (hospital insurance)?

    If you have worked at least 10 years in Medicare covered employment you will qualify for premium free Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance). To qualify, you must be:

    • 65 years or older; or
    • disabled and receiving disability benefits from Social Security or the Railroad Retirement Board for 24 months; or
    • have permanent kidney failure treated with dialysis or a transplant

    You should contact the Social Security Administration to file an application. Check the Important Phone Numbers page of this website for the phone number of the Social Security Office in your area.

17. What types of services are covered under Medicare Part B?

    Medicare Part B helps pay for doctors' services, outpatient hospital care, blood, medical equipment and some home health services. It also pays for other medical services such as lab tests and physical and occupational therapy. Some preventive services such as mammograms and flu shots are also covered. Medicare Part B does NOT cover routine physical exams; eye glasses; custodial care; dental care; dentures; routine foot care; hearing aids; orthopedic shoes; or cosmetic surgery. It also does not cover most prescription drugs or health care you get while traveling outside the United States (except under limited circ*mstances). Please refer to your Medicare Handbook for additional information.

18. What diabetic supplies does Traditional Medicare cover?

    Medicare covers the same supplies for both insulin and non-insulin dependent diabetics. They include: Glucose testing monitor, Blood glucose test strips, Lancets, Spring powered devices for lancets, and Glucose control solutions. Some frequency limitations may apply. Medicare does not cover insulin and syringes. Contact your Durable Medical Equipment Regional Carrier for more information. Check the Important Phone Numbers page of this website for the phone number.

19. What is a Medicare deductible?

    A deductible is the amount you must pay each year before Medicare begins paying its portion of your medical bill. There are deductibles for both the Part A (Hospital Insurance) and Part B (doctor services) portions of Medicare. Your deductible is taken out of your claims when Medicare receives them. Medicare will not start paying on your claims until you have met your annual deductible. If you have any questions on the status of your deductible please contact your Medicare carrier.

20. How do Medicare managed care plans work?

    Medicare managed care plans are another way for you to receive Medicare benefits. All plans must provide all of the services that you would receive under Traditional Medicare with some added benefits. You usually must use the doctors, hospitals and providers in the plan's network. You may have to pay a monthly premium to your health plan. However, you would not need a supplemental Medigap policy if you join a managed care plan.

21. What is a Medicare explanation of benefits form?

    The Medicare Summary Notice (MSN) is an information document that Medicare sends to you after it has processed your medical claims. The MSN provides you with information about the payment status of your bill and if you are responsible to pay any portion.

22. What is the difference between part A and part B explanation of benefits forms?

    Part A covers inpatient hospitalization and part B covers outpatient and physician services.

23. What should I do with the explanation of benefits form?

    Keep the forms you receive from Medicare until all your medical claims have been paid in full. If you have other health insurance in addition to Medicare coverage, your insurance company may require a copy of the explanation of benefits from you before it will pay any remaining balance on your account.

24. Will Medicare cover my outpatient procedure?

    Medicare will pay for medically necessary services ordered by your physician. If Medicare does not cover the services ordered by your physician, you may be asked to sign a Medicare Advance Beneficiary Notice (ABN) to signify that you have been informed of your payment responsibility. There are items/services that Medicare never pays and an ABN may not be issued. Please refer to your Medicare handbook or contact us at the telephone number listed on your bill.
    The Senior Advantage program offers financial counseling services to assist with Medicare claims, supplemental insurance and other issues especially for seniors. Call 1-815-935-7488 for more information.

25. Do I have to sign any forms before the hospital can bill Medicare?

    You will be asked to sign a consent for treatment form each time you receive services. There are also specific questions that Medicare requires we ask at each visit. This will assist us in determining if Medicare should pay your bill or if there may be someone else responsible (i.e. automobile insurance). If the services are not covered, you may be asked to sign an Advance Beneficiary Notice.

26. I have health insurance in addition to MEdicare coverage. Will the hospital bill that insurance company also?

    Yes. Provide the information at registration about your additional health insurance and that insurance company will be billed after Medicare has made its payment or prior to billing Medicare, if it is your primary insurance.

27. Should I pay the balance that is listed as "your total responsibility" on the explanation of benefits form?

    No. You will receive a bill from the hospital and that should be the invoice to which you make your payment. Often there is more than one insurance and more than one Medicare Summary Notice or Explanation of Benefits that could make up the final balance for which you will be responsible.

28. Will I have to pay any money for my hospital visits?

    As a Medicare patient, you could be responsible for some significant charges that are related to, co-insurance, deductible and non-covered charge amounts. If you do not have a secondary or supplemental insurance coverage, please contact Patient Financial Services if your medical bill is a financial hardship. As a service to our community, Riverside provides care at a reduced rate or without charge to eligible persons demonstrating financial need and the inability to pay. Click here to learn more about Riverside's Financial Assistance Program or call 1-815-935-7539, Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. (CST).

29. Why am I being charged for the pills, inhaler, ointments, etc. that I normally take at home?

    Medicare has never covered self-administered drugs if they are provided in an outpatient setting. As an excluded service the hospital must bill the beneficiary.

30. I was admitted to the hospital on one day but there are charges on the detail bill for a few days prior. Why?

    The Medicare 72 hour rule says that the billing of outpatient services rendered just prior to an inpatient stay must be included on the inpatient bill.

31. Am I a hospital Inpatient or Outpatient?

    Please read this brochure to determine if you are an inpatient or outpatient.

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Medicare Policies

We bill Medicare for inpatient and outpatient services. Supplemental insurance will also be billed, at the patient's request, if information is provided at the time of service. Patients are responsible for any charges not covered by Medicare and/or supplemental insurance.

Medicare Deductible, Coinsurance and Premium Rates for Calendar Year 2023:

Medicare Part A Inpatient Deductible (pays for inpatient hospital, skilled nursing facility, and some home health care)

For each benefit period Medicare pays all covered costs except the Medicare Part A deductible (2023 = $1600) during the first 60 days and coinsurance amounts for hospital stays that last beyond 60 days and no more than 150 days. For each benefit period you pay:

• Days 1 - 60: $1600 (2023 annual deductible)
• Days 61 - 90: $400 per day
• Days 91 - 150: $800 per day (Lifetime Reserve Days)
• All costs for each day beyond 150 days

Note: You have 60 Lifetime Reserve Days available at day 91

Part B Outpatient Deductible (covers Medicare eligible physician services, outpatient hospital services, certain home health services, and durable medical equipment)

• $226 per year. (Note: You pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for services after you met the $226 deductible.)

Skilled Nursing Facility Co-insurance

• Days 1 - 20: Medicare Covers
• Days 21 - 100: $200 per day

In addition to your deductible, you may be liable for co-insurance

Additional information regarding Medicare can be found in the Medicare FAQs section

Effective Date:
Sunday, January 01, 2023

Self-Pay Information

Patients who are uninsured or fail to provide us with adequate billing information including proper managed care authorization referrals, are responsible for the total payment of their bill. If you are not covered by insurance, the hospital provides a 72% (vs. 45%) uninsured discount and a 50% uninsured discount for Riverside physician services. If you have any questions or need to make payment arrangements to resolve your account, please contact Patient Financial Services.

Any payment arrangements, other than payment in full must be approved in order to keep your account from being considered past due.

As a service to our community, Riverside provides care at a reduced rate or without charge to eligible persons demonstrating financial need and the inability to pay. Click here to learn more about Riverside's Financial Assistance Program or call 1-815-935-7539, Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. (CST).

State assistance program links:

• State of Illinois - All Kids
• State of Illinois - Family Care
• State of Illinois - Care Rx
• State of Illinois - Health Benefits for Workers with Disabilities
• State of Illinois - Veterans Care
• State of Illinois - Qualified Medicare Beneficiary
• Department of Human Services

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Registration FAQs

1. What is hospital registration?

   Checking-in with hospital registration staff prior to each visit. This ensures that your demographic and insurance information for each appointment is complete and accurate.

2. Where do I go to register?

   Check-in locations for registration vary on the services and the location of the service you will be receiving. When you schedule your appointment or your surgery is scheduled, verify the location to check-in for services. Walk-in services for lab and x-rays can be completed at our Bourbonnais Medical Plaza or Riverside Medical Center's main campus at the Schneider Outpatient Center without an appointment, or our Coal City, Monee, Peotone, Watseka, and Gilman locations.

3. Do I have to stop at registration every time I visit the hospital?

   Usually, yes. We offer convenient self-service check in at many of our locations.

4. Why is registering necessary?

   A claim for each visit must be created in order to access your insurance benefit. Additionally, registering is necessary to verify your demographic and insurance information with each visit.

5. How does registration work?

   A Patient Access Associate asks you for demographic, emergency contact, and insurance information.
   The following is a checklist of items to bring to your hospital appointment:

   • Physician order/script
     • The order/script should include the patient's name, the name of the test(s) being ordered, a diagnosis for each test being ordered, the physician's signature and a date.
   • Photo identification, such as a drivers license, passport, military or government issued card.
   • Insurance Card(s)
     • Insurance cards usually provide insurance company name, phone numbers, plan ID #, group number, member name, primary care physician (PCP), co-pay amounts, billing address, insured name, policy type, policy number, and other financial information. All of this information is important to the successful and timely processing of your claims.
   • Employer information for workers compensation claims. We must have the name, address and telephone number of your employer's workers' compensation liability carrier If you have been provided with a claim number, please give that information to the Patient Access Associate.
   • For minor children, under federal and state laws, both father and mother are responsible for the medical necessities of their dependent children, regardless of any separation or divorce agreements. Therefore, Riverside Medical Center observes the following guidelines. The parent who requests the service for a child will be considered financially responsible for services rendered, regardless of any separation or divorce agreement. If someone other than the child's parent registers the child, the parent who has custody will be considered financially responsible for payment of services provided. Riverside will not act as an arbitrator for a separation or divorce settlement with respect to determining responsibility for payment of hospital bills.
   • Automobile insurance card (in cases of automobile accidents). Like work related injuries we are required to bill your auto insurance prior to billing your health insurance.
   • Usually the hospital will obtain copies of pre-authorization and/or referrals issued by your health plan. If you do not know for sure that these documents or information were received, please bring copies with you. If necessary, your cooperation may be necessary in assisting with obtaining authorizations from your payer.
   • You will be expected to pay your co-pay or a deposit at the time of service. In addition to cash or personal checks, we also accept most major credit cards including MasterCard, Visa, Discover and American Express.
6. Will I need to come early?

   If you are scheduled for a service, follow the instructions for arrival time.

7. What information will I need to bring?

   The following is a checklist of items to bring to your hospital appointment:

   • Physician order/script
     • The order/script should include the patient's name, the name of the test(s) being ordered, a diagnosis for each test being ordered, the physician's signature and a date.
   • Photo identification, such as a drivers license, passport, military or government issued card.
   • Insurance Card(s)
     • Insurance cards usually provide insurance company name, phone numbers, plan ID #, group number, member name, primary care physician (PCP), co-pay amounts, billing address, insured name, policy type, policy number, and other financial information. All of this information is important to the successful and timely processing of your claims.
   • Employer information for workers compensation claims. We must have the name, address and telephone number of your employer's workers' compensation liability carrier If you have been provided with a claim number, please give that information to the Patient Access Associate.
   • For minor children, under federal and state laws, both father and mother are responsible for the medical necessities of their dependent children, regardless of any separation or divorce agreements. Therefore, Riverside Medical Center observes the following guidelines. The parent who requests the service for a child will be considered financially responsible for services rendered, regardless of any separation or divorce agreement. If someone other than the child's parent registers the child, the parent who has custody will be considered financially responsible for payment of services provided. Riverside will not act as an arbitrator for a separation or divorce settlement with respect to determining responsibility for payment of hospital bills.
   • Automobile insurance card (in cases of automobile accidents). Like work related injuries we are required to bill your auto insurance prior to billing your health insurance.
   • Usually the hospital will obtain copies of pre-authorization and/or referrals issued by your health plan. If you do not know for sure that these documents or information were received, please bring copies with you. If necessary, your cooperation may be necessary in assisting with obtaining authorizations from your payer.
   • You will be expected to pay your co-pay or a deposit at the time of service. In addition to cash or personal checks, we also accept most major credit cards including MasterCard, Visa, Discover and American Express.
8. Do I have to make a payment before I receive services?

   You will be asked to make a payment based on your insurance company's co-payment requirement. If your insurance does not have a co-payment requirement, you will be asked to pay a deposit towards your out-of-pocket expense. If you do not have insurance, you will be asked to pay at time of service or make appropriate payment arrangements.

   As a service to our community, Riverside provides care at a reduced rate or without charge to eligible persons demonstrating financial need and the inability to pay Click here to learn more about Riverside's Financial Assistance Program or call 1-815-935-7539, Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. (CST).

9. What if my visit is work or accident related? Do I still need to stop at registration?

   Yes. Informing registration that your visit is work or accident related will ensure that your claim is processed in a correct and timely manner. Riverside Medical Center contracts with Medical Reimbursem*nts of America (MRA) to assist with billing any auto and liability insurance responsible for the payment of treatment. MRA obtains accident details and relevant insurance information. MRA works to uncover sources of medical payment coverage, health insurance or attorney involvement. Once they have obtained all the necessary information they need, they will work with the proper insurance company to get your hospital bill paid. Please provide details of your accident and your insurance information to the hospital registration staff. All accident and insurance information that you provide at the time of service will be forwarded to MRA. If additional information is needed, you will receive a telephone call or letter from MRA. Please assist MRA's staff in providing them with any missing accident and insurance information.

10. What if I do not see a physician but have lab tests or X-Rays done instead, do I still need to stop at registration?

    Yes. Walk-in services for lab and x-rays can be completed at our Bourbonnais Medical Plaza or Riverside Medical Center's main campus at the Schneider Outpatient Center without an appointment, or our Coal City, Monee, Peotone, Watseka, and Gilman locations. The Patient Access Associate will complete a registration to start the claim for the service to be provided, inform the treatment area of your arrival and escort you to the appropriate area.

11. Will I have to sign anything?

    Yes. On each visit you will be asked to sign Consent for Treatment and Assignment of Benefits. This allows us to release information to your insurance company. See Patient Rights and Responsibilities document.

12. I was just here last week and none of my information changed. Do I still need to register with registration?

    Yes. Registration is necessary because we must create a separate claim for each visit in order to access your insurance benefit. Registering for each visit will help ensure your information is correct. It usually takes a few minutes to check in and we may have information for you. This will help speed up your visit and get you to your appointment promptly.

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