Insurance mistake causes costly delay

TULSA - Before Ruby had back surgery, her doctor required her to pay $1,000 upfront to cover any co-pays or deductibles she might have to cover.
 
And that was the beginning of her financial pains.
 
"They got the paperwork messed up, by sending the claim in under my husband's name instead of mine," Ruby told us.
 
Ruby says that started a chain reaction of issues that confused and complicated her efforts with her insurance company to get the $700 refund she was owed from that $1,000 upfront payment.
 
"I would get so frustrated trying to call."
 
Ruby says she needed the money to pay the hospital.

The doctor's office said it couldn't give her a refund until it received payment from the insurance company.
 
Ruby finally called the 2News Problem Solvers, and we got in touch with the insurance company.

A representative helped clear up all the confusion, and got the ball rolling on making sure Ruby got the refund she deserved.
 
"It was very much of a nightmare, and I'm glad to wake up from it finally."
 
And glad to be able to finally pay her other medical bills.
 
Experts say it's important to keep copies of all the explanation of benefits the insurance company sends you.

That helped us get Ruby her refund.

If a problem persists, you can also call the state insurance commissioner for help.