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Doctor patient coordination of benefits

Why this matters
 What is coordination of benefits (COB)?

Coordination of benefits (COB) is the process insurance companies use to determine the payment order – which plan is primary and which is secondary – when a patient is covered by multiple plans. The primary plan pays first, up to its limits; any remaining eligible costs may be sent to the secondary plan.

It is important that your insurance and care team have the correct and full information to avoid billing issues and unexpected costs, and to ensure smooth registration and timely care.

 

Update my COB now

What you need to do

Take two minutes to update your COB information before your next visit

1. Contact your insurance company to ensure they have the correct and complete information

  • Call the number on your insurance card or log in to your plan’s member portal
  • Tell them about all other active coverage (plan names, ID numbers, start/end dates)
  • Ask them to update your coordination of benefits record

2. Update your COB details with us before your next visit

  • Online: MyChart - login page
  • Phone call: If you have not yet received healthcare services and have questions about your insurance or need a Coordination of Benefits, please call Inova Scheduling at 1-855-694-6682 and Press 1.
  • In person: at registration - Share updates with your care team at check-in so your claims can be filed correctly

Some insurance plans require patients to complete COB forms, and Medicare requires patients to complete the Medicare secondary payer questionnaire (MSPQ) every 90 days for date of service

  • If you have an Aetna, UHC or Tricare plan and are being seen at Inova, you will be asked to complete an Inova COB form every calendar year or whenever your information changes. Inova COB form
  • If you have a BCBS, CareFirst, or Anthem BCBS plan and are being seen at Inova, you will be asked to complete a BCBS COB form every calendar year or whenever your information changes. BCBS COB form

Resources

FAQs

Ask each plan for its COB determination in writing. Share that with the other plan. Your employer benefits administrator can help resolve conflicts.

Not always. Secondary plans follow their own coverage rules and may apply deductibles, copays or coordination limits.

Yes. The plan that is primary generally requires any needed authorizations. Check both plans if you’re unsure.

No. Filing order is set by plan and federal/state rules. Providing accurate information ensures correct payment.

Need help? 

We’re here to make your visit easier. Please bring all insurance cards with you, and if you have questions about your account balance after receiving healthcare services, call Inova Customer Service at 571-472-5750 or contact your appointment location prior to your visit.