Are you scheduled for a procedure or admission to The Valley Hospital? We've gathered all of the registration information you'll need to prepare for your hospital visit, so you can focus on your health and well-being.
Having personal and insurance identification on hand will ensure a smooth billing process. Here’s a checklist of items to bring to the hospital with you.
Personal Identification
All patients should provide a legal, non-expired form of identification at registration. Acceptable forms include:
- Driver's license
- Disabled Person's Identification (issued by the DMV)
- Passport
- County Identification Card
- Resident Alien Card (Green Card)
Insurance Identification
Insurance cards provide insurance company information that helps us bill your claim accurately and in a timely manner. Examples of insurance identification include:
- Commercial company insurance card (Aetna, Cigna, Blue Cross and others)
- Military medical card (Tricare)
- Medicare cards
- Medicaid card
- Employer information for worker’s compensation claims and claim number (if available)
- Automobile insurance card (in cases of automobile accidents) and claim number (if available)
Other Important Information to Bring
- Advance directive or living will
- Diagnosis, reason for visit (prescription, if necessary)
- Attending physician (full name, address, phone number)
- Pre-authorization and/or referral forms
Accurate Billing
Gathering accurate data is the key to maintaining correct patient demographics, medical records and billing information, which will make for a smooth billing and reimbursement process. Here are a few things you can do before your visit:
- Obtain pre-certification or referral from your insurance company.
- Make sure The Valley Hospital accepts your insurance plan and that the plan covers the specific test(s) or visit you are scheduled for by going here.
- Visit your insurance company’s website or call them for information about the type of service you are about to receive.
- Make sure you have a good understanding of what is and is not covered by your plan.
- Call your insurance company for any questions you may have about your coverage.
Registration FAQs
Do I have to register every time I visit The Valley Hospital?
Yes. We will then be able to verify both your demographic and insurance information with each visit.
Why is registration necessary?
Registration benefits everyone. It will update your information in our records and assist us in filing accurate claims to your insurance company. Current information on your medical records allows your physician easy access to your medical history and clinical information. Your insurance company also relies on the registration data we provide when we file a claim on your behalf.
What information will I need to bring?
Please bring your current insurance card(s) and personal identification. If your visit is related to a motor vehicle accident, worker's compensation, or other special purpose, please bring copies of any pertinent forms you have for billing instruction. Please inform your Business Associate whether your spouse works so that we can determine which insurance should be primary.
Do I have to make a payment on the date I receive services?
In many cases, we will bill your insurance company (or companies) first and mail you a statement of any residual balances after all insurers have paid their portion of your claim. You will be required to pay for your procedure/hospital stay if you are having a cosmetic procedure or a procedure not covered under insurance before your date of service. If you do not have insurance, you may be required to make a deposit, unless you are approved for Charity Care or the Uninsured Patient Policy.
For Emergency Department services, we will be collecting the ED co-payment required by your insurance plan before your release.
Will I have to sign anything?
Yes. You will be asked to sign a form that allows us to release information to your insurance company and acknowledges your receipt of the Notice of Patient Privacy and a Financial Consent. If you are a Medicare patient, you may be asked to sign an Advanced Beneficiary Notification. There are also medical consents to sign based on the type service you will be receiving at The Valley Hospital.
Will I receive anything at registration?
Yes. You will receive the Notice of Patient Privacy statement, and other forms that may be applicable to your visit (e.g. a patient handbook).
I was just here last week and none of my information changed. Do I still need to register?
Yes. Registering for each visit will help us ensure we have the correct and current information in our files. It usually takes just a few minutes to register. This will help maintain proper medical records information and ensure billing accuracy, alleviating any problems after your discharge.
Why am I being asked questions about my sexual orientation and gender identity?
To help us better understand how we can serve and care for you, we ask that you consider answering the Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity questions asked upon registration. Your responses will help us develop a treatment plan customized to your needs. At Valley, we pride ourselves on being a partner in your care, which includes your medical and well-being needs. Answering these questions is voluntary, and patients have the option to opt-out should they wish.