AUTO INJURY CHIROPRACTIC
Car accidents are extremely stressful and can be pretty confusing if you’ve not had experience with them before. It’s difficult to know what to do right after an accident; the options and steps might seem daunting especially if you’re in pain. Let’s dive into the process a little bit. First of all, if you were recently in an accident and have substantial injuries (cuts, broken bones, nausea/vomiting, memory loss etc) seek immediate medical attention at a hospital. Otherwise, regular chiropractic care should be a priority to assist in managing injuries.
Treatment of injuries after an accident
As with many things in life, there are varying degrees to which injuries can happen in a car accident. Whiplash, concussion, sprains and strains, and intervertebral disc injuries are the most common occurrences. Did you know that whiplash can occur at speeds as low as 10 mph? Symptoms can develop/worsen for up to 3 weeks following a car accident. This is why we recommend receiving an evaluation as soon as possible after even a “minor fender bender”. As musculoskeletal experts we can help determine the extent of injuries and begin the recovery process as quickly as possible. Not only do we offer the latest treatment options and plans at our office, but we can also order x-rays, MRI, and coordinate care to other medical professionals to assure that our patients are receiving the care needed.
Insurance and payments
Oftentimes, people are unfamiliar with how medical bills are handled for injuries related to a car accident. There are several options here, and they are somewhat situationally dependent. Our office can help assist in making this process as easy as possible, while avoiding financial stress.
Medpay (Your insurance a.k.a. “primary”)
In Colorado, Auto Insurance policies come standard with Medpay coverage. There is a way to “opt-out” of this coverage, however it must be done explicitly and in writing. Medpay is essentially a lump of money available for medical bills regardless of fault. Typical coverage amounts start at $5,000 and using this money does not affect insurance premiums.
To use Medpay, you’ll call your insurance company, verify your coverage and limits, and they will give you a claim number. This claim number will be used by our office to submit bills directly to insurance for reimbursement. No out of pocket costs to you, whatsoever. Even if the at-fault insurance accepts responsibility, we would still be billing your insurance, and they will independently recover costs from whoever is responsible.
No Medpay coverage (opted out, or fund is exhausted)
Third party coverage: This is the at-fault party’s insurance. If they have accepted responsibility, you will get a claim number from their insurance company in which medical bills can be submitted. This is a more difficult situation. The third party insurance company may deny payments, and will try to “settle” as often and as soon as possible even if treatment is still ongoing.
Attorney representation: We highly recommend at least consulting with an attorney if not going through your primary insurance. The benefits involve the attorney taking over communication on your behalf. They will be able to make sure your treatment will be covered by the responsible party, and provide support and guidance throughout the whole process. We have a network of experienced and compassionate attorneys that we can recommend.
Lien: This is between a healthcare provider’s office and the individual receiving treatment. It is essentially a loan, with the expectation that the provider will be reimbursed for treatment after care is finished, and the case has settled. Due to the risk involved with providing liens, we will require an attorney to help facilitate this process.
Self-pay: Some of our patients will choose to pay all costs involved in their car accident care out of their own pocket at our discounted time of service rate. This typically is not recommended, as sometimes treatment can last for quite a while leading to higher individual costs in the long run.
For any questions, or more information please feel free to call our office at 303-683-9494 or send us an email at frontdesk@eastridgechiropractic.com