Billing and insurance information

Billing

Q: Why did I receive multiple bills from one hospital stay?

Some providers (including radiologists, pathologists, emergency medicine physicians, intensivists and others) are considered independent medical practitioners and may not be employees of Salem Health. These providers may bill separately for their services. If you have questions about these bills, please call the phone number listed on that statement.

Q: When will I get my bill?

Statements are sent after your insurance has processed and considered all charges on your bill. Once final processing has occurred and your share of the cost is known, a statement will be mailed to you.

If you do not have insurance, a statement will be mailed approximately five days after the final service or discharge date.

Q: How do I get a cost estimate for the services I plan to receive?

• First ask your doctor for as much specific information as possible (such as a procedure code). This provides a more accurate estimate for procedures, such as knee surgery, that can be performed using several different methods that each have a different cost.
• Go to our estimates page to learn how to create your own estimate in MyChart or request one from our team.
• Learn more about good faith estimates.
• Visit our pricing page.

Q: What is “balance billing” (sometimes called surprise billing)? 

Please see your rights and protections against surprise medical bills for further information.

Insurance

Q: Which insurances does Salem Health accept?

We bill all insurances. We are in-network with Medicare, Medicaid and most major insurances. It is recommended that you check our most recent in-network list and contact your insurance company for verification of network status.

• Insurance plans accepted by Salem Health (pdf)

Q: Will my insurance cover the cost of my hospital stay? 

The extent of insurance coverage for your hospital stay will depend on your specific insurance plan. You can contact your insurance provider to find out what services are covered and what your out-of-pocket costs will be.

Q: What if I don't have insurance? 

If you don't have insurance, you may be responsible for paying the full cost of your hospital stay out of pocket. However, we offer an uninsured discount as well as financial assistance to help patients with limited income or resources.

Making a payment

Q: How long do I have to pay my bill?

You have approximately four (4) months to pay your bill or make payment arrangements.

Q: Can I pay with a credit card?

Yes, Salem Health accepts all major credit cards (Visa, Discover, MasterCard, and American Express).  There are several options:

• In person on the main hospital campus in Building A, at the information desk (503-814-1100).
• By phone. Call Patient Financial Services at 503-814-BILL (2455).
• If you’re paying an emergency room bill from an independent physician, contact Salem Emergency Physicians Billing at 866-935-9774.
• Through your MyChart account. Log in to Salem Health MyChart here.
• At the Salem Health website, using Salem Health Guest Pay. You will need your account number and the guarantor or patient name to complete the form.
  

Q: Where do I find my account number?

Salem Health's account/billing statements are designed to give you all the information you need in one convenient place. For more information on how to understand your bill and find your account number, see: How to read your Salem Health bill (PDF)

Q: I am having financial difficulty and need help. Who can I contact?

We want to help you find ways to afford your care. Please call our financial counselor team at 503-562-4357 (HELP). We provide financial assistance, based on household information. Click here to learn more.

Click here to read our charity care and financial policy in full.