At Windom Area Health, our mission is to be Dedicated to Health. We know that "health" isn't just about the care you receive in our clinics or hospital—it’s also about your peace of mind after you go home.
We understand that medical billing can be complex and sometimes overwhelming. Whether you are curious about a "facility fee," wondering why you received multiple statements, or need help navigating your MyChart account, we want to make the process as transparent as possible.
In line with our value of stewardship, we strive to provide high-quality, cost-effective care and the financial resources you need to manage it. To help "demystify" your statements, our billing team has compiled this comprehensive Q&A to answer the most frequent questions we hear from our patients.
1. The Basics: Insurance & Claims
Ever wonder what happens after you leave the hospital? Between "prior authorizations" and "EOBs," the paperwork can move fast. We’re pulling back the curtain on how insurance claims are processed so you can stay informed and worry-free.
- Q: Do you accept my insurance?
- We are in-network with many insurance plans. Because coverage varies by plan, we recommend contacting your insurance provider directly to confirm your specific benefits.
- Q: What is an EOB?
- An Explanation of Benefits is a statement from your insurance explaining how a claim was processed. It is not a bill.
- Q: How long does it take for insurance to process a claim?
- Most insurers process claims within 30–60 days.
- Q: What is prior authorization and who is responsible?
- Some services require prior authorization from your insurance company. We’re happy to assist with this process; however, it is ultimately the patient’s responsibility to confirm that authorization has been approved.
2. Understanding the Costs: Why This Price?
At Windom Area Health, we believe in "Stewardship"—maintaining financial strength while providing accessible, cost-effective care. We know hospital charges can be confusing, especially when multiple statements arrive at once. Let’s break down facility fees and why certain services bill separately.
- Q: Why did I get multiple bills for one visit?
- Different services (facility, provider, lab, radiology) may bill separately.
- Q: What is a facility fee?
- A facility fee covers hospital or clinic overhead costs such as staff, equipment, and supplies.
- Q: Why is my bill higher than expected?
- This may be due to deductibles, coinsurance, non-covered services, or services applied to your deductible rather than paid by insurance.
3. Paying Your Bill: Financial Support
High-quality care should never be out of reach. Whether you need a flexible payment plan or qualify for financial assistance, our team is here to support you. From online payments to our charity care program, here is how we can help you manage your balance.
- Q: Can I set up a payment plan?
- Yes, we offer payment plans. Please contact our billing office to discuss options.
- Q: Can I pay online or over the phone?
- Yes, we accept payments online, by phone, by mail, or in person.
- Q: Do you offer financial assistance or charity care?
- Yes we do offer financial assistance based on income and household size. Applications are available upon request or are on our website, https://windomareahealth.org/patients-visitors/billing/.
4. Technology & MyChart: The Digital Side
Did you know you can go paperless and view your bills right from your phone? Since we partner with Sanford Health for certain services, we want to make sure you know exactly where to look for your Windom Area Health statements.
- Q: Can you help me with my Sanford bill?
- Windom Area Health is a separate entity from Sanford Health and we do not have access to their information as it relates to billing and invoices. For Sanford Health billing questions please call 877-629-2999.
- Q: I can’t see my Windom Area Health bill in MyChart?
- Both Sanford and Windom Area Health use the MyChart App. When you log-in you need to select if you want to view Sanford Health Biling Area or Windom Area Health.
- Q: Why haven’t I gotten a bill in the mail
- If you have a MyChart account, you are automatically enrolled in paperless billing and will get an email when your bill is due. If you want a paper bill, please call our billing office at 507-831-0616.
5. Contact Info & Support: We’re Here to Help
If you think your bill is wrong or just need a friendly voice to explain a charge, we’re only a phone call away. Our staff is available Monday through Friday to ensure your experience with us is excellent from start to finish.
- Q: What are the billing office hours.
- Our Billing Staff is available Monday – Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- Q: What if I think my bill is wrong?
- Contact us to review the charges, coding, and insurance processing.