Detailed Answer
When you file an injury claim in South Carolina, thorough medical records and billing statements prove your injuries and financial losses. Follow these steps to gather and submit these documents correctly:
- List all treating providers. Include hospitals, urgent care centers, primary care physicians, specialists, physical therapists, chiropractors and diagnostic labs.
- Complete and send HIPAA authorizations. Under SC Code Ann. § 44-115-30, patients can request their records. Use a HIPAA-compliant authorization form and send it to each provider by certified mail or via a secure patient portal. SC Code Ann. § 44-115-30.
- Request itemized billing statements. Ask each provider for detailed invoices showing dates of service, procedure codes and individual charges. SC Code Ann. § 44-115-60 permits reasonable copying fees of up to $0.75 per page. SC Code Ann. § 44-115-60.
- Obtain explanation of benefits (EOBs). Include EOBs from your insurer to show payments made and your outstanding balances.
- Organize and summarize. Arrange records chronologically. Create a spreadsheet or table summarizing the provider name, date of service, treatment description, amount billed and amount paid.
- Submit to the claims administrator or your attorney. Send hard copies or secure electronic files. Always include your summary and a cover letter listing enclosed documents. Retain certified mail receipts or upload confirmations.
- Follow up in writing. If a provider delays or denies your request, send a reminder. You can also file a motion to compel production under Rule 37 of the South Carolina Rules of Civil Procedure.
Helpful Hints
- Verify that patient names and dates match across all documents.
- Keep original statements in a secure folder or safe.
- Scan paper records into a password-protected PDF portfolio.
- Maintain a detailed log of all correspondence and delivery receipts.
- If you hit a roadblock, ask your attorney to issue subpoenas directly to non-responsive providers.
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney about your specific situation.