As a patient, you have important rights regarding the cost of your medical care. One of these rights is the ability to receive a Good Faith Estimate. This document outlines the expected costs of medical items or services before you receive them, helping you plan and avoid unexpected bills.

Under federal law, health care providers are required to provide a cost estimate to individuals who do not have insurance, as well as those who choose not to use their insurance for care. This estimate is designed to give you a clear picture of what you may need to pay for your treatment.

Your Good Faith Estimate should reflect the total anticipated cost of non-emergency services. This doesn’t just include the appointment or procedure itself—it also covers related items such as lab tests, imaging, prescription medications, medical equipment, and facility or hospital charges that are connected to your care.

Providers are required to give you this information in writing at least one business day before your scheduled service. You can also request an estimate earlier in the process, even before scheduling, so that you can review your options and make informed decisions. You are encouraged to ask not only your primary provider, but also any additional specialists or facilities involved in your care, for their estimates as well.

If you later receive a bill that is above the amount listed in your Good Faith Estimate, you have the right to dispute the charges. Having a copy of your estimate is very important in these cases, so be sure to keep it in a safe place—either a physical copy or a digital copy such as a screenshot or photo.

The goal of the Good Faith Estimate requirement is to promote transparency and fairness in medical billing. By giving you advance knowledge of your expected costs, it reduces the chance of surprise expenses and helps you plan for your care with confidence.

If you have any questions about this process, your rights under the law, or how to request a Good Faith Estimate, you can find additional resources at www.cms.gov/nosurprises. You may also ask your provider directly for more details at any point during your care.