If you've ever opened a medical bill and felt something wasn't right — too high, too vague, or just plain confusing — you're not alone. And more importantly, you're not stuck.

Disputing a medical bill isn't just your right — it's a smart, potentially money-saving move that could protect your financial future.

A recent JAMA Health Forum study shows that when patients take action, they often win. Whether the charge was incorrect or just unaffordable, the majority of people who contacted billing offices got real results — and some even had their bills completely canceled.

So before you pay, here's why it's worth taking a closer look.

Most Medical Bills Have Errors — and They're Often Fixable

About 1 in 5 Americans received a bill they couldn't afford or disagreed with in the past year. Of those who spoke up:

  • ~75% had the error corrected
  • 62% secured a payment plan or price reduction
  • 76% who negotiated got financial relief or cancellation

Yet many people don't dispute bills simply because they think it won't help.

According to Erin Duffy, lead author of the study and director at USC's Schaeffer Center for Health Policy, most patients who called were able to reduce or correct their bills — even if they technically could afford to pay.

Medical Debt Is a Crisis — and It's Avoidable

Over half of U.S. adults have carried medical debt in the past five years, and Americans owe more than $220 billion in medical bills. For many, these debts damage credit scores, prevent loan approval, and lead to lawsuits or wage garnishment.

Dr. Adam Gaffney, a Massachusetts-based critical care physician, emphasizes that these bills don't just hurt — they follow people for years. Disputing unfair or inaccurate charges can prevent long-term financial harm.

Why Some People Don't Dispute — and Why You Should

People most likely to challenge bills tend to be more assertive, skeptical, or extroverted. Meanwhile, those who are uninsured or have lower financial literacy are less likely to speak up — even when they're being overcharged.

But here's the truth: you don't need to be an expert to dispute a bill. You just need to ask.

What You Can Do If Your Bill Looks Wrong

✅ Step 1: Make Sure the Bill Is Actually Yours

Mistakes happen — especially if you have a common last name. Always verify the bill matches your name, date of service, and provider.

✅ Step 2: Request an Itemized Bill

This breakdown lists every charge — and can reveal:

  • Duplicate services
  • Charges for procedures never performed
  • Coding errors

Hospitals are legally required to provide an itemized bill within 30 days of your request.

Example: One patient was billed for a pregnancy test for their newborn son.

Know Your Rights: The No Surprises Act

Thanks to the No Surprises Act (2022), you're protected from unexpected out-of-network bills when treated at an in-network facility. If your bill includes surprise charges, you may not have to pay them — and you can dispute it.

Uninsured or self-pay patients can also request a good faith estimate in advance. If your final bill exceeds that estimate by $400 or more, you have the right to dispute it.

Ask About Financial Assistance (Even After You're Billed)

If you're struggling to pay, don't put it on a credit card just yet. Nonprofit hospitals are required to offer financial assistance — often called charity care — and post their policies online.

Even after a bill is issued, you can apply for help and potentially:

  • Reduce your bill
  • Set up a no-interest payment plan
  • Have your charges forgiven

Why This Matters

Medical billing can feel opaque and intimidating — by design. But it's not untouchable. If someone is charging you money, you have the right to understand it, question it, and challenge it.

As Michele Johnson of the Tennessee Justice Center says:

"We think of medical bills as untouchable, but the truth is there are rules that protect you — and you should use them."

Bottom Line: If Something Feels Off, Speak Up

Disputing your bill isn't about being difficult — it's about protecting your finances, your rights, and your peace of mind. A five-minute call could result in hundreds (or thousands) in savings, and in many cases, full relief.

Quick Recap: Why You Should Always Dispute a Medical Bill

  • ❌ Most bills have errors or surprise charges
  • 📞 A simple phone call often gets results
  • 📃 Itemized bills can reveal mistakes
  • 🛡️ The No Surprises Act protects you from out-of-network traps
  • 💰 Financial aid is available — even after you've been billed
  • 🧾 You have legal rights as a healthcare consumer