SOL Question

[Flypilot]

I have a medical collection that shows the date opened as 12/2007 and another of 2/2008. The service was provided in June of 2007 and our insurance stuck us with a huge bill we could not afford.

Question:

When is the SOL for medical collections up? Does it start from the date of missed or last payment or when the credit report shows it as "opened"? I am assuming the SOL is 3 years for AZ like other open accounts (non-contractural).

I want to offer them a PFD but not until the SOL is up.

Thanks,
Flypilot

[chane]

I've read that it's 3 years in AZ.

However, "ANY health care facility that is supported in part by ANY Governmental funding, and that receives "reimbursement" from tax $$ for "no pays" is exempt from almost all regulations or SOL because to allow those exemptions is considered to be "not in the public interest".

[Flypilot]

Originally Posted by chane

I've read that it's 3 years in AZ.

However, "ANY health care facility that is supported in part by ANY Governmental funding, and that receives "reimbursement" from tax $$ for "no pays" is exempt from almost all regulations or SOL because to allow those exemptions is considered to be "not in the public interest".

Well, I am sure they are all in some type of program with the Feds to get money. I will wait until the end of the month and offer them a PFD. If they take it great. If not, 4 more years of disputing it I guess.

Fly

[debtexecutioner]

Chane is right on the 3 year statute of limitations in Arizona for open-ended accounts (credit cards, revolving credit, etc), providing you haven't signed a specific contract. Here's your statute:

12-543. Oral debt; stated or open account; relief on ground of fraud or mistake; three year limitation

BUT, were your medical bills as a result of a hospital stay or doctor visits?
Here are 3 Simple things you can do to deal with medical bills and collections:

1). Most Hospitals have an indigent program, which you can apply for, that pays for your medical bills. They are normally funded via grants, fed funds, and donations. Do research, call the hospital and see if you qualify.

2). Double check all bills. Hospitals and doctors are notorious for over-billing.
If you've found they over- or double billed, dispute the bill using the Fair Credit Billing Act. It must be done within 60 days of the current billing cycle.

3). Review your insurance policy on coverage and compare coverage to your medical bills. If you don't understand policy terms, call the company and find someone that will explain it to you. And if it doesn't happen the first time, call again and @ different times of the day until you get an answer.

You can also contact your local legal aide office and talk to an attorney.
Legal aide is either Free or at low cost depending upon your income. They can review your policy and compel the insurance company to pay for your medical bills that might have been covered.

Sara Goodman
DebtExecutioner:cool: