Expert: Ray A Miller - 2/4/2011

Question
I have medical bills that have gone to a money recovery service. I have been told by many people that hospitals can't send them until a year after the date that I was seen. I am confused on the minimum amount that I have to pay in the state of Michigan so they don't send it to a money recovery service. I was seen on 10/23/2010 and it was just last week that I got a notice that the bill was at the money recovery service. I have full intentions of paying it off, but after this happened I lost my job. I have no money coming in but Have someone willing to help and i don't want them to pay more than needed to keep me out of trouble. I also had to go in for surgery for my medical need and will have more bills that I don't want to go to the money recovery service.  My bills are for two hospitals, one is in Coldwater, MI, Branch County and the other one In Battle Creek, MI, Calhoun County. In all I owe about 2500 dollars.  I had insurance at the time and this is my portion of the bills. I really would like to know the state minimum payment that is needed so my friend is not out the 2500 that I owe. When I find a job it will get paid in full. I thank you for your time!

Answer
I could not find any law referencing a time limit or payment limit on medical bills.  As far as I know, the provider can turn your bills over for collections at any time they see fit. I did see several sites offering assistance by searching Google at: MI medical bills.  I hope you find this helpful.