Frequently Asked Questions

You may have questions about your financial responsibility and what exactly your insurance may cover. Below are the most common questions patients ask about their insurance coverage and clear, simple answers to them. By giving you a summary of your financial rights and responsibilities, we hope you can concentrate on the most important part of your hospital stay – getting better.

Do I need to let my insurance company know that I’m in the hospital?

Many changes have taken place in the health insurance industry in recent years. Some procedures and services that were once covered in full are now only partially covered, covered only under certain circumstances, or in some cases not covered at all. Since every insurance plan is different, please be sure to check your coverage and ask questions. For more information, you can contact your insurance plan directly or contact your employer. Your insurance plan can deny payment for services or procedures even after they’ve been completed. Many health maintenance organizations (HMOs) and insurance plans now require preadmission notification, along with insurance approval or second opinions for certain procedures. For your own peace of mind, we recommend you know the benefits of your individual plan. Not following your insurance company’s rules could result in a larger financial responsibility for you.

Does the hospital need a copy of my insurance card?

Yes. It contains information we need to file a claim with your insurance on your behalf. Your registration process goes much faster when you bring your insurance information with you.

When do I have to pay my co-payment and deductible?

You’re expected to pay your plan-required co-payment, estimated co-payment and/or deductible prior to leaving the hospital. We accept cash, personal checks, Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express.

Will the hospital/the clinic bill my insurance company for me?

Yes. The hospital or clinic will, as a courtesy to you, send your medical insurance company a bill for services you incurred as a patient. It’s important to remember, however, that the hospital and clinic relies on you for settling your account in full regardless of your insurance coverage. Your insurance policy is an agreement between you and your health insurance carrier.

Are my physician’s charges incorporated into my hospital bill?

No. Your physician’s bill is separate from the hospital bill. You’ll also receive separate bills for medical services performed by other contracted professional medical personnel. For example, care providers such as radiologists, pathologists and anesthesiologists may work at the hospital but don’t work for the hospital. Please contact their private offices with questions about their bills.

What if I’m having difficulties paying my co-payment or deductible?

Our patient financial representatives are available to assist you. Please contact the FMH Patient Financial Services/Business Office to discuss options that might be available. (907) 458-5510 or toll-free at (888) 347-5510.

What if I don’t have insurance?

Patient financial representatives in the Patient Financial Services/Business Office can discuss payment arrangements with you.

Who do I call if I have questions about my bill?

For Tanana Valley Clinic, call (907) 459-3580

For Fairbanks Memorial Hospital, call (907) 458-5510

For Denali Center, call (907) 458-5100

Important Terms and Definitions


We've provided a glossary of billing terms to answer questions about billing terminology.

If you have any questions regarding your billing statement, please contact:

FMH Business Office
(907) 458-5510
Monday - Friday:
8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

TVC Business Office
(907) 459-3580

PHVC Office
(907) 458-6450
Monday - Friday:
8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Denali Center
(907) 458-5100
Monday-Friday:
8 a.m. - 5 p.m.


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