Understanding Your Estimate
Why am I getting an estimate?
We provide an estimate to help you understand your potential financial responsibility for a planned service. It is based on your insurance plan and the anticipated care you will receive.
What does my estimate include?
Your estimate provides a breakdown of the total cost for your care and the portion that will likely be covered by your insurance, as well as the amount you may need to pay. It considers factors such as your deductible, copay, and coinsurance.
Is this the final bill?
No. This is an estimate, not a final bill. The final amount may change based on the actual services you receive during your visit. If your doctor determines you need additional tests or treatments, your final bill will reflect those changes.
An example of an estimate statement prepared by Penn State Health:
Contact Us
If you have questions about your estimate, contact the Financial Navigation team at 888-835-5850, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Streamline Your Visit with Prepayment
If you’ve received a payment estimate from Penn State Health for your upcoming service, there are convenient options available to make your payment ahead of time and help streamline your visit:
- Pay in advance using one of two available methods.
- Pay at check-in on the day of your appointment.
Choosing to pay before your appointment can help reduce wait times and improve your overall experience.
In addition, if you have any outstanding balances from previously received services, you will have the opportunity to pay them—either in full or with a partial payment.
How to Make a Payment Prior to Your Appointment
Secure online payment via electronic communication
You can view and pay your estimate for an upcoming appointment by clicking the link provided in the email or text message sent by Penn State Health. These messages contain a secure link for easy online payment.
An example of these communications is shown below.
Secure online payment using the prepayment portal
You can also make a prepayment by visiting the secure Penn State Health Prepayment Portal. Simply verify your identity using your email address or cell phone number. Once authenticated, you'll be prompted to pay your estimate prior to your appointment.
You can choose to pay the full amount or make a partial payment. If you have any outstanding balances from previously received services, you will have the opportunity to pay them—either in full or with a partial payment.
Additional information is available about how to pay your estimate online.