the "no surprises act"

Under the No Surprises Act of 2022, health care providers are required to give patients who do not have medical insurance or who are not using medical insurance to pay for services an estimate of the bill for medical items and services. The act aims to protect patients from surprise medical bills and increase price transparency. Licensed Professional Counselors providing psychotherapy are subject to this law.

• You have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate for the total expected cost of any non-emergency items or services. 

• You will be given a Good Faith Estimate in writing at least 1 business day before your service or item, or at any time upon request. You can also ask your provider for a Good Faith Estimate before you schedule an item or service. A single Good Faith Estimate may be provided for recurring services, such as multiple counseling visits. 

• A Good Faith Estimate is only an estimate, but if you receive a bill that is at least $400 more than your Good Faith Estimate, you can dispute the bill. 

• A Good Faith Estimate is not binding and is based on general practice and treatment progression. As the client, you decide when to increase, decrease, or discontinue therapy sessions. 

• It is advised to save a copy of your Good Faith Estimate. 

• For questions or more information about your right to a Good Faith Estimate, visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises or call 1-800-985-3059. 

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