Auto Insurance Claims: auto claim, health insurance plans, health insurance company

Question
Hey Richard, I am a physician in ohio. I treated a patient for an auto accident,
her attorney thinks we should have billed her health insurance. I disagree, I
thought that the health insurance was to pay after any medpay, or third party
liability is exhausted. Is that right? Where can I find that law.

Answer
Hi Doc,

Unfortunately, I am not specifically familiar with Ohio law as it pertains to this situation. Generally, you are correct. However, your only goal here is to get paid for your services. So you should go ahead and bill the health insurance. Of course you will be indicating that the injuries were sustained as a result of a MVA. Most health insurance plans have a subrogation clause. This means that the health insurance company will then seek reimbursement either from the patients auto insurance or they will claim a lien against any insurance settlement from the 3rd party auto insurance if applicable. The patients attorney will then be responsible for the satisfaction of any liens from the proceeds of any settlement before dispersing any remaining funds to your patient.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh