Billing and Insurance

NOTICE: How much does COVID-19 testing cost?

The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act requires providers to list the “cash price” of COVID-19 tests on their public websites. UPMC’s standard charge for a COVID-19 diagnostic lab test is $155. If you have insurance, most plans will waive cost-sharing for COVID-19 testing, so there should be no out-of-pocket cost to you for this test. Please contact your insurer if you have questions about your plan. Similarly, if you do not have insurance you will not have an out-of-pocket cost for the COVID-19 diagnostic lab test. The CARES Act provides a financial support mechanism for hospital and providers that conduct COVID-19 diagnostic testing on uninsured patients during the public health emergency.

At UPMC in central Pa.  we want you to fully understand all the charges on your hospital bill. We are available to answer any question you may have, either online or on the phone at 717-231-8989 or 877-499-3899.

Use our online tool to get a price estimate.

Contact us online if:

• You have a question about your hospital bill.
• You feel there is an error on your hospital bill.
• You want to give additional insurance information.
• You need financial assistance in paying for services.

In some cases, we may not be able to answer your questions immediately, but we will call back with an answer as soon as possible.

Understanding Your UPMC Bill

We will bill your insurance on your behalf, but it is your responsibility to ensure the payment of your hospital bill.

Your bill from UPMC in central Pa.  Hospitals will include charges for the following items:

• Room and Board – These charges will reflect the cost of your room. Examples of room type include semi-private, private, intensive care or coronary. The room charge includes your nursing care, meals, laundry and housekeeping.
• Ancillary Services – Includes the cost of medication, rehabilitation services, radiology services and all diagnostic testing.
• Supplies – Includes the cost of all supplies necessary to treat your condition.

Additional Bills

UPMC in central Pa. does not bill you for services provided by your private physician, anesthesiologist or other independent medical professionals, including physicians and other specialists who interpret certain tests such as pathology results, X-rays and EKGs.

You will receive separate bills from these providers, and you should contact them if you have questions about their bills.

Copies of Your Bill

Please call a customer service representative at 717-231-8989 or 877-499-3899 if you need a copy of your itemized UPMC bill, which will be sent to you at no charge.

If you need more than one copy of your itemized bill, there is a charge of $5 for each outpatient bill and $10 for each inpatient bill. The copy will be sent to you after the fee is paid.

Payment Arrangements

Anyone who requires emergency services at UPMC  hospitals in central Pa. will be treated regardless of his or her ability to pay.

• Uninsured – Patients that do not have an urgent or emergency need for treatment will need to discuss a financial arrangement with a financial counselor prior to receiving services.
• Insured – Patients with out-of-pocket financial responsibilities for deductibles, coinsurance and co-pays, may be asked for payment at time of service. Download a List of Insurances We Accept (PDF).
• Financial Aid – Based on eligibility, is offered through our Charity Care Policy.

If you have any questions about the estimated charges for treatment you require or you need to set up a payment plan, please contact our Customer Service area at 717-231-8989 or 877-499-3899. They will connect you with one of our Financial Counselors should their assistance be needed.

UPMC  hospitals are committed to treating patients who have financial needs with the same dignity and consideration that is extended to all of its patients, consistent with the Mission of the UPMC in central Pa.