Many patients have enjoyed the convenient free messaging tool, but it hasnt been so great for providers.
Now, many healthcare institutions are starting to charge for the time spent answering patient emails.
We bill for medical advice and care.
We dont bill for routine correspondence, like a prescription refill request, said Berthold.
They can decide to proceed with asking the question or make an in-person appointment instead.
For Medicare patients, they must consent to receive eVisit services, said Resneck.
That consent would typically include receiving notice that a copay or deductible may apply.
Will Insurance Cover MyChart Charges?
Most insurance providers will cover eVisits, so many patients probably wont even know they were charged.
That said, it is up to the provider to decide if they will bill for applicable MyChart services.
If you have insurance, you may not even realize youve been billed.
If youre not sure how much youll have to pay, check with your provider before you message them.
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.Medicare telemedicine health care provider fact sheet.
UCSF Health.Medical advice through MyChart messages: How it works and what it costs.
