If you've ever been in a car accident, you know there are is a lot of stress and anxiety that comes with the process. After dealing with the trauma and stresses of the actual accident and car, you have to worry about taking care of yourself if you are experiencing pain or have been hurt. Following a traumatic event, it's important to have the RIGHT team of people around and not just those who see you as a great opportunity to run up a bill.
Here are the truths about chiropractic following a car accident in the Tampa and St. Pete area.
First and foremost, you have 14 days following the date of loss (date of accident) to be assessed by a healthcare provider to access your benefits. This can be at the hospital, urgent care, your family physician, or your chiropractor's office. If no severe or serious issues are immediately present, it is advised to schedule an appointment ASAP to rule out any potential traumatic musculoskeletal injuries.
Second, in the state of Florida, you have access to up to $10,000 in Personal Injury Protection. That means following an accident, almost everyone is covered by their healthcare insurance for up to 10K. Most insurance plans have a deductible that must met prior to accessing this 10K, however, we have seen anywhere from $0-$2,000.
Third, unless there is a serious traumatic injury, going to the hospital or urgent care is a waste of time and money. The bill for an exam following a car accident in a hospital is ASTRONOMICAL. They will most likely take full-spine X-rays and or an MRI and really run up your tab. So please, prior to going to the hospital or urgent care, consider other options.
Fourth, in the state of Florida for motor vehicle accidents all healthcare providers are able to bill up to 140% of the standard fee schedule. For example, if one typically charges $100 for a service, it is now billed to your insurance as $140. This applies to pretty much everything. THIS is why making the right choice in searching for a chiropractor following an accident is so important. Historically, our profession is known for having offices that really run up the bill. My father had a $500 bill following his accident for his initial 30-minute appointment. They also charged $50 for Biofreeze and $50 for a hot pack. Unbelievable.
Fifth, if we do not feel you need an X-Ray or MRI, we will not send you for imaging. Some lawyers will try and "ask us" to send their client, however, we kindly remind them to stick to the law and we'll stick to the healthcare. This is also a tactic to run up the bill and say "hey, you had a 50K bill following this accident so we have a good case."
I know this sounds like a lot, and it is. But after all the paperwork and phone calls and pain and stress after an accident, you DESERVE quality, caring people in your corner. If you were in a car accident in the Tampa or St. Pete area, give us a call at 727-228-3030 or schedule at strengthchiro.com and we'll do our very best to take care of you!
Dr. Cameron Gholampour DC, MS, CCSP
International Certified Sports Chiropractor
Strength & Spine Chiropractic
