How to Pay Your Radiology Bill: Online, In Person, By Phone

Getting a radiology procedure like an MRI, CT scan, ultrasound, or x-ray provides important medical imaging for diagnosis and treatment. However, these advanced tests also come with a cost. If you recently had imaging done through a radiology provider, you’ll need to pay your radiology bill Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to pay your radiology bill through online, phone, mail, or in-person options

Pay Online

The fastest and most convenient way to pay your radiology bill is through an online bill pay portal if offered by your provider, Many major radiology centers let you pay online via their website

To pay online first locate your account number and amount due on your billing statement. Then

• Go to your radiology provider’s website and find the online bill pay section.
• Select the “pay bill” or “pay online” option.
• Enter your account number and billing details.
• Submit your credit card or bank account information to complete payment.

Online bill pay lets you securely pay 24/7 and avoid mailing delays. You’ll also have an online payment history available. Common fees are around $1.50-$3 for online payments.

Pay by Phone

If you don’t want to pay online, most radiology providers also offer a phone payment option.

To pay over the phone:

• Locate the billing or customer service number on your statement.
• Call the number and follow prompts to pay via automated system or speak to a representative.
• Have your account number, amount due, and credit/debit card ready.

There is usually a small phone payment processing fee of around $1.50. Phone payments allow you to take care of your bill without needing internet access.

Pay by Mail

Paying by physical check is also an option with most radiology providers. To pay by mail:

• Fill out your payment slip or stub that came with your statement.
• Write a check for the amount due and record your account number on the check memo line.
• Mail your payment slip and check in an envelope to the billing address.

Allow 5-7 business days for mailed payments to avoid late fees. Make checks payable to your radiology provider. There is no fee for paying by mail with a check.

In-Person Payments

For a more hands-on approach, you can pay your radiology bill in person at their billing office or payment kiosk if available.

To pay in person:

• Bring your billing statement with account number and amount due.
• Visit the radiology provider’s billing office during business hours.
• Pay via cash, check, or credit/debit card (fees may apply for cards).

Paying in person lets you talk through any billing questions and get same-day payment receipt. But online and phone payments are typically faster and more convenient overall.

Payment Plans

If you can’t pay the full balance due, contact your radiology provider’s billing department to ask about setting up a payment plan. Many centers will work with you on multi-month arrangements to pay over time.

Financial Assistance

Some radiology providers offer financial assistance or hardship programs if you can’t afford to pay for medical imaging services. Find out if they have payment assistance options for low-income uninsured/underinsured patients that you may qualify for.

Providing income documentation will be required to take advantage of an assistance program and discounted care. Payment plans may also be part of financial assistance.

Avoid Late Fees

Make sure to pay your bill by the due date listed on your radiology statement to avoid late fees. Due dates are typically around 20-30 days from the statement date. Late fees range from 10% to 20% of the unpaid balance.

Set payment reminders and consider auto-pay options to pay on time. Communicate with the billing office about delays to try and avoid penalties. Keeping your radiology account in good standing is important.

Change of Address

Update your address with the radiology provider’s billing department if you move. Billing statements and communications will be sent to the address they have on file for you. Keeping your contact information current avoids missed bills.

Review Statements

Carefully review your radiology billing statement and charges before paying. Make sure all details like your name, account number, dates of service, and procedures match the services you received. Notify the billing office immediately of any potential errors.

Request Receipts

After paying your radiology bill, save the payment confirmation or request a receipt for your records, especially if paying by cash. You’ll need these for submitting to insurance and flex spending accounts. Most providers can email or mail payment receipts.

Collections Process

If your radiology bill remains unpaid after multiple statements and attempts to contact you, the unpaid account will be sent to a collections agency. This negatively impacts your credit score. Avoid further complications by resolving outstanding bills before they reach collections status.

Summary

Navigating medical bills can be confusing, but paying your radiology statement on time is important. Online, phone, mail, and in-person payment options provide flexibility. Seek financial assistance or set up payment plans if you can’t afford the full balance immediately. Keep your contact information updated, review statements carefully, and request receipts for records. With proactive payment, you can manage radiology bills smoothly.