Expert: Apex Credit Services, LLC - 12/29/2007

Question
QUESTION: I received a summons for a medical bill for $1500.  Earlier in the year i was paying towards the bill, but then i stopped getting bills, I called the medical billing dept and did not receive a return call.  I thought the bill was a little high to begin with and had thought that maybe they resubmitted it to my insurance(which happens often) and they then took care of it.  Well not so I got A collection notice, so I called to make payment arrangements.  They were only willing to except 3 payments of $500 of which I was unable to do.  Then in June I received a letter from a lawyer with intent file suit.  I sent a letter asking to make payments arrangements.  Heard nothing until Dec where I was served with summons for court.  I called the firm and will only except $500 up front and $100 a month.  I simply do not have it, I have alot of reoccuring medical exspenses due to a cronic illness.  It has been a hard year for me and my husband, who missed 6 weeks from work having back surgery in Oct.  I dont know what to do! I cant afford a lawyer , if I could I would pay the bill.  The bill is for what my insurance company wont pay of my remacade treatments.

ANSWER: Kristen:

    I am sorry to hear about your situation.  Unfortunately, you have little to no options.  First, you need to file a responsive pleading to avoid a default judgment.  However, it is likely that the medical provider will have sufficient evidence to support their claims.  That being said, you will likely have a judgment rendered against you at some point.  Thereafter, the will likely move to garnish your wages (if permissible in your state) and/or levy your bank accounts.  If you own property, they may try to attach the title.

     If at all possible, pay this.

         Apex Credit Services, LLC

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I do realize I am going to have to come up with this somehow.  I have asked for an itemized statement because I have not gotten one from the medical center and the Lawyers office told me they didnt have one.  I think the amount is wrong and I have made some payments.  Also if I dont pay all of it now and they get their judgement can they keep from getting future treatments?

Answer
Kristen:

    You may have to get the itemized statement during Discovery if they fail to give it by their own accord.  In any event, it seems that you're going to have to pay some amount.  Again, I'd advise paying it if at all possible.

    They will not be able to refuse you "emergency" treatment.  For anything otherwise, they may or may make you pay upfront.

         Apex Credit Services, LLC