New York Attorney General secures over $4.6 million in refunds and savings for consumers
New York’s Attorney General secures over $4.6 million in refunds and savings for consumers affected by unfair medical billing and insurance practices, showcasing the effectiveness of the state’s Medical Assistance Helpline.
New York's Attorney General Letitia James has announced the recovery of over $4.6 million for New Yorkers who were subjected to unfair medical billing practices and insurance denials in 2023 and 2024. This restitution was achieved through the state’s Medical Assistance Helpline, which offers free support for those struggling with insurance companies and healthcare providers.
The report, issued by the Attorney General’s office, highlights over 4800 cases handled by the helpline. These cases involved issues such as wrongful insurance claim rejections, billing errors and the denial of necessary medical treatments. The Attorney General emphasized the state's commitment to protecting consumer rights and ensuring fair access to healthcare.
New York AG announces bill to protect consumers after Trump hobbles CFPB. Photo: CNBC.
How New York’s Attorney General is fighting for consumers’ medical rights?
Attorney General Letitia James remarked, “No one should face unfair medical bills or insurance issues alone. My office is here to ensure that everyone has access to affordable, necessary care.” This statement reflects the ongoing efforts by the state’s legal office to hold medical providers and insurance companies accountable for unethical practices.
The Medical Assistance Helpline also works to eliminate the negative impact of wrongful charges on consumer credit reports, providing full support for individuals who need it most. As healthcare becomes an increasing concern for many families, services like this have proven to be vital in ensuring justice for consumers. Consumers who feel they have been mistreated by their insurance providers or healthcare services can reach out to the helpline for assistance. The service remains a powerful tool in maintaining fairness within the healthcare system, as it continues to assist people across New York.
New Yorkers Reclaim $4.6 Million in Wrongful Medical Charges with Help. Photo: Hoodline.
Over 4800 cases resolved by New York’s Medical Assistance Helpline
New York's Medical Assistance Helpline has emerged as a crucial service for consumers, resolving complex disputes with health insurance companies and medical providers. In the past two years, it has facilitated the recovery of more than $4.6 million in refunds, savings and corrected medical bills for New Yorkers who faced unfair treatment. The initiative handled a total of 4803 consumer complaints, assisting those who had been overcharged or unjustly denied medical coverage.
One of the standout cases involved a cancer patient who was unknowingly left without insurance coverage after being fired from their job. The helpline successfully intervened to restore the individual’s coverage for the remainder of the month, preventing nearly $11.000 in medical expenses. Another case involved a homeless individual who, despite qualifying for financial assistance, received hospital bills. After the intervention of the helpline, the hospital agreed to cover the full amount under financial assistance.