This is hospitals, not doctor's offices; offices can collect at the visit. A hospital that takes Medicare agreed to something different: it can ask, it can estimate, it cannot make your share up front a condition of being admitted. Say it back: "Is this required for admission, or a request?" and get the answer in writing. In an emergency, screening and stabilizing come before any money talk. If they insist: the patient advocate, then 1-800-MEDICARE. An ask is not a rule.
Already paid up front, and the Summary Notice says your share was less? BillFighter writes the refund request.
Check your bill — freeThe check is free. The letter is the paid part: you print and mail it yourself, or we send it by certified mail for you. No account needed to start.
This is the general rule, in plain words. BillFighter is not a law firm and does not give legal advice. If you have been served with court papers, that is the day for a lawyer or legal aid.