Surprise Billing and Balance Billing Protections

At UMass Memorial Health – Harrington, we understand that healthcare billing can be confusing, and we are here to help.

What do the terms Balance Billing and Surprise Billing mean?

Surprise Billing occurs when a patient receives a larger-than-expected medical bill due to their care provider being out-of-network. It typically occurs in the following scenarios:

  • Emergency care situations, when patients may not be able to choose health care providers covered by their insurance.
  • An out-of-network provider renders service to a patient at an in-network hospital.

Balance Billing happens when an out-of-network provider holds a patient responsible for the difference between their gross charge and the insurer’s allowed amount.

It’s important to understand your rights and protections against surprise medical bills.  Below are some links with more information:

Should you have any questions regarding billing or insurance, please contact our Financial Counseling Department Monday-Friday 7:30 am – 5:00 pm at (508) 765-3180 and we will be happy to assist you.

UMass Memorial Healthcare

508-765-9771

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Visitor Policy & Masking 

Effective December 1, 2022, UMass Memorial Health -Harrington has implemented a new visitor policy:

  • Inpatient Medical Units – up to 2 visitors are allowed at a time (visiting hours are 10 AM to 8 PM)
  • Outpatient Areas and Physician Services Offices – one visitor is allowed
  • Emergency Departments in Southbridge and Webster – one visitor is allowed

Masks are optional and encouraged for patients and visitors.
Our top priority is to protect you, our patients, communities, and healthcare workers.