The No Surprises Act and out-of-network bills
The federal No Surprises Act protects against most surprise out-of-network bills for emergency care and certain in-network facility services. Here is what it covers and how to invoke it.
What it covers
Emergency services at any facility, including out-of-network ERs.
Non-emergency services at in-network facilities by out-of-network providers (anesthesiology, radiology, pathology, etc.).
Air ambulance.
What to do
Do not pay the surprise bill. Contact the insurer and provider.
File a complaint at cms.gov/nosurprises or call 1-800-985-3059.
The provider and insurer must settle through arbitration; you are only responsible for in-network cost sharing.
Upload the denial letter. Free analysis first, finished letter second.
FAQ
Does the No Surprises Act apply to ground ambulance?+
Not yet at the federal level. Several states have separate protections.
More guides
- How to write a health insurance appeal letter
- Internal appeal vs external review: what is the difference
- Expedited appeals: when to ask for an urgent review
- Health insurance appeal deadlines you need to know