Good Faith Estimate (GFE)

A Good Faith Estimate (GFE) is a document that provides patients with an estimate of the expected charges for medical services or items before they receive care. This requirement was established under the No Surprises Act, which aims to protect patients from unexpected medical bills, particularly in situations where they may not have control over the providers they see.

Key Features of a Good Faith Estimate

Who Provides It

Healthcare providers, including hospitals and clinics, are required to provide a GFE to uninsured patients or those who are self-paying for services. This includes both scheduled services and items.

Contents of the GFE

• Description of Services: A detailed description of the medical services or items to be provided.
• Estimated Charges: An estimate of the expected charges for each service or item, including any additional fees that may apply.
• Provider Information: The name and contact information of the provider or facility offering the services.
• Timeframe: The GFE must be provided within a specific timeframe, typically within one business day for scheduled services.

Patient Rights

Patients have the right to receive a GFE when they request one, and they can use this estimate to compare costs among different providers.

Dispute Resolution

If the final bill exceeds the GFE by a certain percentage, patients may have the right to dispute the charges.

How to Obtain a Good Faith Estimate Requesting a GFE: Patients should ask their healthcare provider for a GFE when scheduling a service or procedure. It's advisable to do this as early as possible to ensure they receive the estimate in a timely manner.

Reviewing the Estimate

Patients should carefully review the GFE to understand the costs involved and ask questions if anything is unclear.

Resources for More Information

• Centers for Medicare Medicaid Services (CMS): The CMS website provides detailed information about the No Surprises Act and GFEs. You can visit their site for resources and guidance.
• Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB): The CFPB offers insights into how GFEs work and what patients should know about their rights regarding medical billing.

If you have any specific questions about GFEs in healthcare or need further assistance, feel free to Contact Us.