Pricing Policies FAQs

Why do prices vary so much between hospitals?

Prices vary because:

• Insurance companies, Medicaid and Medicare all negotiate their own prices with hospitals nationwide.
• A patient’s insurance coverage changes for in-network and out-of-network providers.
• Need-based financing available from the hospital or private charities.

How much will it cost for me?

Your physician will create a treatment plan for you based on your unique needs, condition, medical history and his or her area of expertise. Second opinions are often helpful in exploring options and cost, in addition to easing patient anxiety. However, insurance coverage is still the most important factor in determining the cost of care. Payments made out-of-pocket, funds from health reimbursement accounts and other sources may contribute toward a plan’s deductible depending on the insurance company’s policy.

For patients without insurance coverage, or who have limited financial resources, Spartanburg Regional has established a Financial Assistance Program to help cover the cost of health care for families in need.

What if I can’t afford to pay my bill?

Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System is committed to providing health care to those in need, regardless of their ability to pay. In support of this commitment, Spartanburg Regional has established a Financial Assistance Program for uninsured patients and/or those with limited financial resources. Learn more about our program and find out if you are eligible. In addition to a Financial Assistance program, Spartanburg Regional offers several forms of payment arrangements.

What if I'm uninsured?

We can help you determine if you qualify for Medicare, Medicaid, or other programs sponsored by the government or hospital system. We can also give you an estimate of what your costs will be and work with you on a payment plan if necessary. Health insurance may also be available for you at healthcare.gov, a website created under the Affordable Care Act. Depending on your income, you may qualify for tax credits to help pay the premiums of your new insurance.

How does my coverage (e.g. private insurance, Medicaid, Medicare) affect my costs?

We contract with almost all of the more prominent health plans in our region. Please check with your health plan to verify your coverage before scheduling services. This list is subject to change. Your health plan may require you to schedule certain services (such as lab work, physical therapy, imaging, etc.) at select locations in your network. Should you choose to receive services outside of your network, your insurer may hold you responsible for all charges provided outside of your network.

Please be sure to familiarize yourself with your benefits. Obtain proper authorization for services, submit referral or claim forms, fill out a coordination of benefits form, if necessary. Also, know that many insurance plans require patients to pay a co-payment or deductible amount that may be due at the time of registration, service or discharge. You are responsible for copayments required by your insurance provider to Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System. In addition to insurance cards and authorization forms, we may ask for a driver’s license or other identification. Let us know if your personal or insurance information has changed since your last visit.

Will the hospital bill my insurance company directly?

Yes, Spartanburg Regional will send a bill to your insurance company after you leave the hospital. Once the claim is processed, the insurance company will send an Explanation of Benefit statement in the mail to inform you of the charges and treatment you received. Any payments due to the hospital after insurance will be listed in these forms.

You will also receive a bill from the hospital, which may be paid online or via mail. Create a MyChart account to receive e-mail notifications, view standard payment plan options and pay your bill online.

Where can I find information about hospital quality and outcomes?

The South Carolina Hospital Association created myschospital.org to provide access to reliable information about the quality and safety of hospital care in the region. Medicare Hospital Compare also offers in-depth data at medicare.gov/hospitalcompare.