Effective October 1, 2024
In compliance with Minnesota Statute § 62J.806

McDonald Eye Care – Medical Debt Policy

At McDonald Eye Care we are committed to transparency, compassion, and fairness in our billing and collection practices. This policy
applies to services billed directly by McDonald Eye Care Associates.

Communication & Billing Timeline

  • Initial billing: A statement is mailed within 30 days of receiving the insurer’s EOB or, for uninsured patients, at the time of service.
  • Follow‑up statements: At least three payment requests are sent over a 90‑day period before any collection activity begins.
  • Good‑faith estimates: Uninsured/self‑pay patients receive an estimate before service when feasible, or as soon as possible afterward (details on our website).

Efforts to Contact & Assist Patients

  • We use phone, text, email, and mail to resolve outstanding balances.
  • This policy is available in languages commonly spoken in our community.

Payment Plans & Statement Fees

  • No statement, late fees, or interest are applied during the first 31 days after the initial bill.
  • Flexible payment plans are offered for patients experiencing financial hardship; care is never denied solely for inability to pay.

Use of Collection Agencies

  • Any agency must comply with this policy and all applicable laws.
  • An account may be referred to collections only if:
    • At least 180 days have passed since the initial billing,
    • The patient has received three statements and reasonable opportunity to respond, and
    • No financial‑assistance request or payment plan is in place.
  • A final notice will be sent 30 days before referral, stating the intent to refer.
  • Balances can still be resolved directly with McDonald Eye Care after referral.

Protections for Patients

  • No extraordinary collection actions (e.g., wage garnishment, credit reporting) occur without first evaluating financial status and offering assistance.
  • Patients may dispute charges or request a payment plan at any time.

Contact

McDonald Eye Care – Billing Department
Phone: 952‑469‑3937
Email: McDonaldEyeCareAssociates@gmail.com
Address: 20094 Kenwood Tr. W., Lakeville, MN 55044
Hours: Mon–Thu 8:00‑5:30 · Fri 8:00‑5:00 · Sat 8:00‑12:00

Policy Availability

  • Posted on our website
  • Available in print upon request

Under Minnesota law, effective October 1, 2024, all health‑care providers must publicly disclose their medical debt collection policies.
See Minn. Stat. § 62J.806 and related legislative guidance.

Applicability

This requirement applies to all health‑care providers, including individual practitioners, clinics, group practices, and hospitals.