Federal law gives uninsured and self-pay patients the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate explaining how much scheduled health care is expected to cost.
When you can ask for an estimate
You can request a Good Faith Estimate before scheduling care. You are also entitled to one when you schedule care at least three business days in advance.
- If care is scheduled 3-9 business days in advance, the estimate is generally due within 1 business day after scheduling.
- If care is scheduled 10 or more business days in advance, the estimate is generally due within 3 business days after scheduling.
- If you request an estimate before scheduling, it is generally due within 3 business days after the request.
What the estimate means
The estimate should describe the expected charges for the dental care reasonably anticipated at the time it is prepared. It is not a contract, and the final care or cost can change if the examination reveals different needs or you choose a different treatment option.
Keep a copy or photograph of your estimate so you can compare it with the bill.
If the final bill is substantially higher
If a bill from a provider is at least $400 more than that provider's Good Faith Estimate, you may be able to use the federal patient-provider dispute process. You generally must start the dispute within 120 calendar days of the date on the initial bill. See CMS instructions for disputing a bill for eligibility and how to begin.
Request an estimate from our office: Call (703) 455-5555. For federal information, read the CMS Good Faith Estimate guide or call the No Surprises Help Desk at 1-800-985-3059.