April 8, 2025
When negotiating medical bills, having a well-prepared script can make the process smoother and more effective. Here are some of the best medical bill negotiation scripts you can adapt for your use:
When you first contact the billing department, it's important to introduce yourself and set the stage for a productive conversation.
Script: "Hello, my name is [Your Name]. I recently received a medical bill and I’d like to discuss it with someone from the billing department".
Follow up by asking for clarification on the charges: "I wanted to make sure that the charges are all accurate. Can you help me understand the itemized charges – what they mean and how much each cost?".
If you notice any specific charges that seem incorrect, address them directly: "I noticed [specific charge or service] listed on the bill, and I don't recall receiving or being informed about that particular service. Could you provide more information about it?".
After gathering necessary information, transition into negotiating the bill.
Script: "I'm calling in reference to my bill. I see here that the balance is $[Bill amount], but I can pay you $[Lower amount] today and settle the bill as a $0 balance".
Another approach is to ask directly if the bill is negotiable:
Asking, Is this negotiable? is a non-confrontational way to propel the debate in the patient’s favor.
Explain your situation, emphasizing your willingness to pay: Explain your situation, tell them you wanna pay, and inquire about any available options for negotiation.
Read: What negotiation tactics do medical debt collectors not want you to know?
If you can't afford a lump sum payment, inquire about a payment plan.
Script: "Can I set up a payment plan? If the amount is low enough, I could pay this bill off over time".
If you can offer a lump sum that is less than the total amount, propose a settlement.
Script: "I want to offer you a settlement amount of $[Settlement amount] to be paid in full to close out this account. I’ve worked very hard to save this money. This is all that I can afford. Will you accept this offer?".
Always follow up in writing to summarize any agreed-upon terms or payment arrangements.
Script: After any phone conversations or negotiations, send a written follow-up summarizing the agreed-upon terms or any payment arrangements you discussed!.
