As a patient, you have the right to receive a “Good Faith Estimate” that explains how much your medical and mental health care will cost. This is an important aspect of ensuring transparency in healthcare, especially when it comes to understanding therapy costs. Under the No Surprises Act, health care providers are legally required to give patients who do not have insurance or who choose not to use their insurance an estimate of the expected charges for medical services, including psychotherapy. This “Good Faith Estimate for Therapy” is designed to help you make informed decisions about your healthcare, providing a clear “Therapy Cost Estimate” before you commit to any services.

You are entitled to receive a Good Faith Estimate for the total expected cost of any non-emergency healthcare services, which includes all mental health services and psychotherapy. This estimate is crucial for those seeking “Therapy Pricing Transparency,” as it allows you to know in advance what the financial obligations might be, helping you plan accordingly. If you are considering therapy or any other medical service, it’s your right to request a Good Faith Estimate from your provider—or any other provider of your choice—before scheduling the service. This helps ensure that you are fully aware of the costs involved.

In the event that you receive a bill that is at least $400 more than the estimate provided, you have the right to dispute the bill. This provision is designed to protect you from unexpected charges and ensure that the cost of your care aligns with the estimate provided. To safeguard yourself, it’s essential to save a copy or take a picture of your Good Faith Estimate. This documentation can serve as evidence if you need to dispute a bill or seek further clarification about the charges.

For those who have questions or need more information about their right to a Good Faith Estimate, resources are available to assist you. You can visit the official website at www.cms.gov/nosurprises for more details on how this law protects you and what steps you can take if you believe your rights have been violated.

By understanding your right to a “Mental Health Service Estimate,” you can take control of your healthcare decisions, ensuring that you receive the care you need without any financial surprises. Being informed about the costs of therapy and other healthcare services is an important part of managing your overall well-being.