Medical bills, collections, confusion...

[ryl]

Hi all,

I just used my free annual credit report and discovered a collections account for a past-due medical bill on my Experian report. I was hospitalized in late 2008, had an agreement to pay about $20 a month to the hospital, and paid faithfully until I moved in late 2009, when I sent them a change of address form. I never heard from them again, and honestly totally forgot about the whole thing until I checked my credit today. The collections account was put on my credit report in February 2010.

I wouldn't mind paying the bill, of course, but I'm puzzled as to why they didn't contact me at all after I moved, and I want it off of my credit report! It all seems a bit unfair (but I suppose this sort of thing always does). I'd appreciate any advice. What are my options here?

Thanks!

[TeeJS]

I've been trying to get a firm understanding of the info on the Medical collections/HIPPA thread (aaacreditguide.com/forums/beginners-credit-information/5869-medical-collections-hipaa-process.html), and I'd recommended it as a great place for you to start!