Direct billing
The hospital bills an eligible insurer directly, but pre-authorization, deposits, exclusions, or co-payments may still apply.
Insurance · practical claims guide
Insurance claims after hospital care.
A practical overview of direct billing, pay-and-claim reimbursement, and the documents you may need to keep.
STARTTwo common payment routes
Direct billing and reimbursement are not the same.
Pay first, claim later
You pay the hospital, collect the required documents, and submit a reimbursement claim to your insurer.
Confirm before treatment. A hospital saying it “accepts international insurance” does not automatically mean your plan has cashless direct billing there.
STEPSA safer claims workflow
Before, during, and after the visit
- Before the visit
Contact the insurer
Ask whether the hospital, campus, department, doctor, and planned service are eligible and whether pre-authorization is required.
- Before treatment
Confirm the hospital’s billing route
Ask whether the hospital can direct bill your exact plan or whether you must pay first. Confirm any deposit, deductible, or co-payment.
- At the hospital
Use the same name as your insurance record
Check that your passport name, patient record, invoice, and claim form match as closely as possible.
- Before leaving
Collect the documents
Request official invoices, itemized bills, medical notes or diagnosis records, test reports, prescriptions, and proof of payment.
- After the visit
Submit the claim
Follow your insurer’s portal, email, or claim-form process. Keep copies of everything you submit.
- Follow-up
Respond to document requests
The insurer may request translations, additional medical records, a physician’s signature, or clarification from the hospital.
CHECKLISTDocuments to ask for
Keep a complete claim file.
Official invoice or fapiao
Itemized bill
Proof of payment
Medical record or visit summary
Test and imaging reports
Prescription and medicine receipt
Pre-authorization reference
Completed insurer claim form
Document requirements vary by insurer and plan. Ask whether English documents or certified translations are required.
Insurance disclaimer: This page provides general practical information, not legal, financial, insurance, or medical advice. Confirm all requirements with your insurer and hospital.