Today we’re talking about Medicare liens which is a form of subrogation. If you do not know what subrogation is, be sure to watch my previous video.
Medicare is a “secondary payer” meaning its obligation to pay is second to the at-fault party’s responsibility. However, to help its insureds promptly pay medical bills, Medicare issues “conditional payments” to medical providers.
Technically speaking, Medicare has a statutorily-created “right of recovery,” not a subrogated interest in the claim – meaning the at-fault party may have to reimburse Medicare even if you receive nothing from the at-fault party.
Since the right of recovery extends beyond the at-fault party – meaning Medicare can recover from the claimant, insurance companies, as well as involved law firms – it is imperative your lawyer notify Medicare of the claim as soon as possible.
In most cases, we can negotiate with Medicare to reduce the amount that is required to be paid back – thereby putting more money in our client’s pockets.
If you have questions about personal injury claims please contact Scott for a no cost, no obligation consultation and case evaluation.