Legal Resources – Know Your Rights
Medical billing errors can sometimes result in unfair collections or even legal disputes. If you’re in this situation, our legal resources page provides:
- Guides on how to dispute medical bills.
- Links to patient rights organizations and advocacy groups.
- Contact information for legal professionals who specialize in healthcare billing disputes.
We’ll help you navigate the legal landscape if your case requires it.
The Joint Commission (TJC)
The Joint Commission is a non-profit organization that accredits and certifies healthcare organizations. They handle complaints regarding patient safety and quality of care in hospitals, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities.
State Health Departments
Each state in the U.S. has a health department or a similar agency that oversees healthcare providers and facilities. Complaints about patient care can often be filed with these departments, which can investigate issues like neglect, poor treatment, or safety concerns.
California Department of Public Health or Find your state
Medicare/Medicaid (Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services – CMS)
CMS oversees the quality of care in facilities that accept Medicare or Medicaid. Complaints related to the care of patients in these settings can be directed to CMS.
The Office for Civil Rights (OCR)
The OCR, a division of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), addresses complaints related to privacy violations under HIPAA and discrimination in healthcare.
State Medical or Nursing Boards
If the complaint concerns a specific healthcare provider (doctor, nurse, etc.), the state medical or nursing board can investigate professional misconduct, negligence, or unprofessional behavior.
Medical Board of California or Find your state
Consumer Protection Agencies
Many states have consumer protection agencies that handle complaints about unfair business practices, which can include poor healthcare services.
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau
National Patient Safety Foundation (NPSF)
This non-profit organization works to improve patient safety and can be a resource for addressing complaints related to safety issues in healthcare settings.
Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program
This program advocates for the rights of nursing home residents and can assist in filing complaints related to the care in long-term care facilities.