Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
Detailed Answer
Under Minnesota’s Personal Injury Protection (PIP) law, you must provide your auto insurer with “reasonable proof” of your medical treatment to recover benefits for injuries from a car accident. See Minn. Stat. § 65B.44, subd. 2. Follow these steps to document and submit your records effectively:
Step 1: Obtain a HIPAA Authorization
Ask your health care providers to sign a valid HIPAA-compliant medical release. This allows the insurer to receive records directly and avoids redacted or incomplete files.
Step 2: Gather All Medical Records and Bills
Request from each provider:
- Itemized bills listing procedure codes (CPT) and charges.
- Clinical notes detailing diagnoses and treatments.
- Imaging reports (X-rays, MRIs) and laboratory results.
- Physical or occupational therapy progress records.
Step 3: Prepare a Chronological Treatment Summary
Create a one- or two-page summary that lists:
- Dates of service.
- Provider names and specialties.
- Treatment types and purpose (e.g., pain management, mobility restoration).
- Total charges per visit.
Step 4: Submit Your Proof to the Insurer
Combine your treatment summary, medical records, and itemized bills. Include:
- Your full name and claim number.
- Date, time, and location of the accident.
- A cover letter referencing Minnesota’s PIP law.
Send via certified mail or your insurer’s secure online portal. Under Minn. Stat. § 65B.53, the insurer must pay or deny benefits within 30 days of receiving reasonable proof.
Step 5: Monitor and Follow Up
Keep copies of everything you send. Track delivery dates. If you don’t receive a response within 30 days, send a written reminder referencing your original submission and statutory timeline.
Helpful Hints
- Keep original documents; send only legible copies.
- Organize records in date order for easy review.
- Use a concise cover letter listing each document enclosed.
- Request electronic records when available to speed the process.
- Consider a medical billing advocate if you face complex billing disputes.