Double payment for knee treatment irks patient

DEAR BRUCE: Last May I twisted my knee to the point I had to go to the ER. I dutifully paid a $150 co-pay, as instructed by my medical insurance policy, and was X-rayed, given a splint and instructed to return the following day.

I presented myself the next day and was attended by a doctor who removed some liquid from my knee. I then received another bill for a $150 co-pay for using the ER. I argued that I should not be charged two co-pays of $150 as it was the same procedure and it was not my fault the doctor was not available for the first visit. They have ignored my pleas and now bill me as “over due.” Am I wrong? -- T.R.

DEAR T.R.: I can appreciate your displeasure. You would have been far better advised, in my opinion, for something as relatively modest as the treatment you received, to go to a “doc-inthe-box,” which is considerably less expensive than several trips to the ER.

You should be able to make a complaint to the hospital and at least get them to give you some type of consideration. I would make an appointment with the people at the hospital and plead your case. If they are unwilling to refund you $150, pay it and go in peace, but know where you won’t go next time.

DEAR BRUCE: I am a widow of two years. I have two POD (payment on death) bank accounts on which my three children are listed. I am 76 years old and have a 2012 Nissan and a house on a golf course that I am still paying for. Is there a similar procedure for the car and the equity in the house that would allow them to receive the equity and car without going to probate or setting up a trust? -- T.T.

DEAR T.T.: I understand you’re trying to make life as simple as possible. There is no reason why you couldn’t put the car and the house in the kids’ names. You may have other things that you wish to leave to your kids (as individuals) and then, of course, they will have to go to probate, but that’s no big deal.

There have been so many books written on how to avoid probate due to the huge costs, none of which are accurate. What you should have is an upto-date will expressing what you want and to whom you want your possessions distributed. Have one of the kids serve as the executor of the will. Then get an attorney to guide you through the rough spots, which are few, and the costs will be very modest. You should be able to sleep a lot better knowing that your affairs will be handled appropriately.

Send questions to bruce@ brucewilliams.com. Questions of general interest will be answered in future columns. Owing to the volume of mail, personal replies cannot be provided. The Bruce Williams Radio Show can now be heard 24/7 via iTunes and at www. taeradio.com. It is also available at www.brucewilliams.com.