Understanding Prices
We understand that coming to the hospital can be a stressful time and understand the bills associated with your care can be confusing. At Sentara, we are committed to providing transparent pricing information to help patients and customers make informed health care decisions and ease some of the stress.
If you have questions about pricing or your hospital bill, please contact our billing department.
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Estimating hospital charges
Estimating the price of a health care procedure can be complicated. The charges for services is based on many factors that vary from hospital to hospital. These factors include:
- Purchasing medications and surgical supplies
- Powering and maintaining hospital buildings
- Paying health care workers
The charges will be based on the average number of procedures performed and the average total charges for those procedures, using current database information. Charges are usually revised on an annual basis.
Estimates include hospital pricing/charges only. They do not include physician charges, rehabilitation, home health or other pre- and post-operative care. Estimates also assume services are provided without complications. The final bill you receive will include charges for actual services provided to you. These charges may differ from the estimate. You will be responsible for any additional charges in excess of the estimate. The estimates will not provide an insurance benefit review. Patients with insurance should understand their insurance health benefits and out-of pocket requirements which may impact their personal financial liability for anticipated health care services. Please contact your insurer directly for information about your financial obligation.
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If you have health insurance
The amount you are responsible for paying depends on your insurance plan. The most accurate estimate will be provided by your health insurance provider. Your financial responsibility will depend on your medical plan benefits and may include a deductible, coinsurance or copays. It's important to contact your insurance company before a medical procedure. Here are some of the most common plans:
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If you don't have insurance
You may qualify for financial assistance program. Learn more about financial assistance at Sentara.
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Additional Information
As the healthcare landscape has changed, so have the costs charged directly to the patient. The amount you may pay depends upon a number of factors, and we want to be sure you are always kept informed and help you manage your healthcare costs. These websites provide information regarding average Virginia hospital charges and average insurance allowances for a number of medical services.