No Surprises Act – Patient Rights & Disclosures (2026)
Your Rights and Protections Against Surprise Medical Bills
When you get emergency care or get treated by an out-of-network provider at an in-network hospital or ambulatory surgical center, you are protected from surprise billing or balance billing under federal law.
What is “balance billing”?
When a provider bills you for the difference between the provider’s charge and the amount your health plan pays. Under the No Surprises Act, patients are protected from this practice in certain situations.
Your Protections Under the No Surprises Act
You are protected from balance billing for:
- Emergency services, including services provided after you are stabilized
- Certain non-emergency services provided by out-of-network providers at in-network facilities (such as hospitals or ambulatory surgery centers)
In these cases, you cannot be billed more than your plan’s in-network cost-sharing amount (such as copayments, coinsurance, or deductibles).
Good Faith Estimates for Self-Pay and Uninsured Patients
If you do not have insurance or choose not to use your insurance, you have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate of the expected charges for non-emergency services.
This estimate will be provided:
- Upon scheduling services, or
- Upon request, before services are provided
If you receive a bill that is $400 or more above your Good Faith Estimate, you may dispute the bill.
Independent Dispute Resolution & Complaints
If you believe you have been incorrectly billed or your rights under the No Surprises Act have been violated, you may contact:
U.S. Department of Health & Human Services
Important Note About Physical Therapy Services
Physical therapy services provided by [Practice Name] are typically delivered in outpatient clinic settings or patient homes and are not emergency services. Patients are informed in advance of:
- Insurance participation status
- Expected charges
- Patient financial responsibility
We are committed to transparent pricing and informed consent.
Questions?
If you have questions about your financial responsibility or would like a Good Faith Estimate, please contact:
Gardner Physical Therapy & Balance Centers
