Expert: Richard Hixenbaugh - 1/28/2011

Question
Hi I was involved in a car accident a few weeks ago...the driver of the other vehicle was at fault...I went 2 the emergency room for neck & back pains & now I am going 2 the chiropractor...I have heard all type of things about the chiropractor that I am uncertain about...My question is whether are not a chiropractor can get more money than a patient..some ppl say they can,some ppl say they can't while others say the amounts between the patient & the chiropractor has 2 be the same...My health is far more impt.than money but at the same time I don't want 2 be left out with no money at all...thanks in advance for your help.....

Answer
Hi Dashia,

I really don't understand your question but I will try to answer.

The chiropractor gets paid for specific services that he provides to you to try to help your condition. The amount you get as a settlement from the insurance company will depend on how good of a negotiator you are. You will need to send a demand package to the insurance company that includes all of your medical bills and the total amount you want to settle the claim. The insurance company will then try to find reasons to not pay you. They will try to reduce the medical bills or say that you were not really hurt that bad. They will make you a low ball offer. then you have to counter with another offer to settle. This process could go back and forth for months until someone gives in and agrees to accept the other persons offer.

If you do not feel you are up to handling this process then you should hire an attorney.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh