“Covid fees” added to your medical bill

 My husband’s periodontist has raised his rates to offset the costs of “covid-proofing” his office. Among other modifications—which I guess include personal protective equipment—the doctor has installed fancy air purifiers. Apparently, adding charges to patients’ bills have become commonplace. They’re called “covid fees,” and they range from a few dollars to nearly $1000.

These fees are often billed directly to the patient and are not covered by insurance. For example, one dentist tacks on an additional $45 to patients’ teeth-cleaning bills. In some states, this is a violation of consumer protection laws. Some insurers reimburse part of these added fees, which, in dental offices, range from $12 to $45. If the insurance company does reimburse, they pay between $7 and $10—that is, if you have dental insurance. We do not.

While such charges have become commonplace in dental offices, they’re also cropping up elsewhere, such as assisted living facilities. One resident was charged a $60 fee for personal protective equipment on top of a one-mile ambulance ride that already cost $1,759 before the fee. Another woman was charged a one-time $900 fee for masks, cleaning supplies, and meal delivery.

Of course, dentists and other medical establishments are taking a financial hit because of the pandemic. But—I don’t know—adding a covid fee to our bills just doesn’t sit right with me. I object.

For an introduction to this blog, see I Just Say No; for a list of blog topics, click the Topics tab.