Balance billing is a billing practice that occurs when a healthcare provider charges a patient for the difference between the provider's charge for a service and the amount that is paid by the patient's health insurance plan. This difference is known as the "balance."
For example, let's say that a healthcare provider charges $100 for a particular service, but the patient's insurance plan only covers $80 of that charge. If the provider engages in balance billing, they will charge the patient the remaining $20 out-of-pocket. This practice is controversial because it can result in unexpected medical bills for patients and can lead to financial hardship.
There are some states that have laws in place to limit balance billing or prohibit it altogether, but in many cases, it is still a common practice. It is important for patients to be aware of their insurance coverage and to understand their financial responsibility for any healthcare services they receive. It can be helpful to ask the provider about their billing practices and to inquire about the cost of any services in advance to avoid surprise bills.