Early in January 2015 I was sent to my local hospital for a second round of Pulmonary Function Tests to check on the progression of Restrictive Lung Disease which was diagnosed January 2014. I started the test at 7:30 a.m. and had shortness of breath and chest pain before being able to finish the tests. I ended up in the ER and was kept there for a typical heart work-up and required IV pain medication to bring the discomfort under control. The doctor came in and told me that I was being admitting to the hospital not that I was being placed under observation. Prior histories went into his decision or so I was told. October 2012 – admitted with both lungs full of blood clots; June 2013 – two strokes; July and August 2013 blood transfusions due to GI bleeding; Restrictive Lung Disease in January 2014; and 30 year history of heart problems taking 8 different heart medications daily.

January was my first hospitalization since having Medicare as our secondary insurance. I must admit that I had not read the “Manual” mostly because Medicare was our secondary and I find reading to be a chore since the strokes. If I would have known that my stay was an observation one, I would have refused to stay at my local hospital. I would have had my spouse drive me the 75 miles to Knoxville where my cardiologist is located and ask for a work-in appointment with him. If he would have sent me to the hospital it would not have been for observation. I do believe that the hospital you happen to be admitted to can make a big difference.

I just recently found out that it was an observational stay when I had a large bill to pay beyond my BC/BS payment. I am frightened at the thought that my husband is being forced to retire at the end of the year and Medicare will become our primary insurance.

I feel that every ER should have signs posted in large letters:

Are You a Hospital Inpatient or Outpatient?
If You Have Medicare – Ask! This could cost you extra!

I also think the hospital should explain this in detail to the patient or family and get a signature to verify your understanding and willingness to be placed for an observational stay and what that means.