Can a lab company send you a bill 3 years after service?

Has anyone ever had anything like this happen to them? Back in October 2015, I was pregnant with my now soon-to-be 3 year old. My OB wanted me to get genetic testing bloodwork. He assured me there would be no cost to me because he "had a deal" with the company. I was worried about possibly getting a bill and I spoke with him about it prior to having the test done, especially since I didnt feel a need for the test. I was under 35, and had not had any issues with my 1st born child a few years prior. But he really assured me there would be no bill. Now, over 3 years later, I get a letter from the insurance company we had during that time. We don't even use that insurance company any more. And it says this company sent them a claim for $8,000 and they paid $0 because it was out of network. So I haven't gotten an actual bill yet, but I'm concerned. Does it seem like they're just trying to see if they can get anything out of the insurance company, or would they actually send me a bill for $8000 for bloodwork from 3 years ago?!??!!? I called my OB office and all they said was if I get a bill, to show it to them. But they didnt say they'd pay it or do anything about it. So now, needless to say, I'm worried. Anyone in medical billing know if this is allowed? Or has anyone ever had anything like this happen to them?

Re: Can a lab company send you a bill 3 years after service?

Have your OBGYN see the Bill.

It is possible it wasn't coded right at the time. And the claim would have to to be re-submitted by them.

Re: Can a lab company send you a bill 3 years after service?

Pretty sure there is something called a surprise bill law. If you get one you fill out some form saying it was a surprise bill. Look it up.

Re: Can a lab company send you a bill 3 years after service?

Re: Can a lab company send you a bill 3 years after service?

One caution - do your research first. I had something similar happen (after the doctors office said it would be low cost). I did what I thought was responsible since the bill was overdue and paid, figuring they would reimburse me. I never got any of the money back, they said if I hadn't paid it, they would have had a better chance of fighting it or getting it reduced. A very expensive lesson for me.

Re: Can a lab company send you a bill 3 years after service?

My feeling is that you’re not going to get an actual bill for this, but if you do, I’d bring it to the doctor’s office ASAP and have them deal with it.

Re: Can a lab company send you a bill 3 years after service?

First, you haven't gotten a bill yet, so nothing may ever come of it.

I had a similar thing happen to me, though it wasn't anywhere near $8,000. The insurance company eventually ran it through as in-network b/c the dr who sent me to the genetic counselor for the test was in-network.