Hey there! If you’ve ever found yourself staring at a WakeMed medical bill wondering “how do I even pay this thing?” you’re not alone. Medical billing can be confusing but paying your WakeMed bills doesn’t have to be a headache. I’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you navigate the WakeMed bill pay system with ease. Whether you’re a tech-savvy person or prefer traditional payment methods, WakeMed offers several convenient options to settle your medical bills. Let’s dive in!
What is WakeMed Bill Pay?
WakeMed bill pay is an online service that allows patients and guarantors to pay their medical bills through the WakeMed MyChart portal. It’s designed to make the payment process as smooth and convenient as possible, eliminating the need to mail checks or visit a payment office in person.
The system allows for both registered MyChart users and guests to make payments, giving you flexibility in how you manage your healthcare finances. The guest pay option is particularly useful for those who don’t have or don’t want to create a MyChart account but still need to pay their bills.
Why Use WakeMed’s Online Bill Pay System?
There are several advantages to using WakeMed’s online bill pay system:
- Convenience – Pay anytime, anywhere, 24/7
- Security – Encrypted payment processing keeps your information safe
- Speed – Payments are processed immediately
- Record-keeping – Access payment history and receipts
- Multiple payment options – Credit cards, debit cards, and bank accounts accepted
How to Pay Your WakeMed Bill Online as a Guest
One of the most convenient features of WakeMed’s billing system is the ability to pay as a guest. This means you don’t need to create an account or remember another username and password. Here’s how to do it
- Visit the WakeMed guest pay portal at: https://mychart.wakemed.org/MyChart-PRD/billing/guestpay/payasguest
- Ensure JavaScript is enabled in your browser (the site will show an error if it’s not)
- Look for the “Pay as Guest” option
- Enter the guarantor information from your bill
- Enter your visit account information
- Follow the prompts to complete your payment
Important note: Make sure JavaScript is enabled in your browser before using the site. The WakeMed bill pay portal requires JavaScript to function properly.
Understanding Key Terms on Your WakeMed Bill
When paying your bill, you’ll encounter some terminology that might be unfamiliar. Here’s a breakdown of what these terms mean:
What is a Guarantor?
According to the WakeMed site, “The guarantor is the person responsible for paying the bill. You can find the guarantor name and ID in the upper portion of your statement.”
This is typically the patient themselves or, in some cases, a parent, spouse, or other responsible party. The guarantor information is crucial when making payments, especially as a guest.
What is a Visit Account?
The WakeMed site explains that “A visit account is how your charges are grouped together to bill insurance, and usually represents your billing activity for a single visit. You may have multiple visit accounts, each with their own balance.”
Think of a visit account as a container for all the charges related to a specific healthcare encounter. If you’ve had multiple appointments or procedures, you might have several visit accounts to pay.
Benefits of Creating a MyChart Account for Bill Pay
While the guest pay option is convenient for one-time payments, creating a MyChart account offers additional benefits:
- Save payment methods – Store credit card or bank account information for future use
- View payment history – Access a record of all your past payments
- Set up payment plans – Manage larger bills with scheduled payments
- Access detailed billing information – See itemized charges and insurance adjustments
- Receive electronic statements – Get bill notifications via email instead of mail
The WakeMed site encourages users to sign up for MyChart, stating: “Want to save your credit card or bank account for next time? You can also learn more about your bill, sign up for a payment plan, and review your payment history. Sign up for MyChart today!”
Alternative Ways to Pay Your WakeMed Bill
Not everyone prefers online payments. WakeMed understands this and offers several other payment methods:
By Phone
You can call WakeMed’s billing department directly to make a payment using your credit card, debit card, or bank account information. This is a good option if you have questions about your bill or need assistance with the payment process.
By Mail
Traditional check payments can be mailed to WakeMed’s billing address. Be sure to include your account number on your check to ensure proper crediting of your payment.
In Person
WakeMed has physical locations where you can pay your bill in person. This might be convenient if you’re already visiting a WakeMed facility for an appointment.
Tips for Smooth WakeMed Bill Pay Experience
Here are some practical tips to make your bill payment process as smooth as possible:
- Keep your bill handy – You’ll need the guarantor ID and visit account number
- Check your insurance coverage – Make sure you understand what portion you’re responsible for
- Set calendar reminders – Don’t miss payment due dates
- Consider automatic payments – Set up recurring payments if you have an ongoing balance
- Contact billing support early – If you have questions or concerns, don’t wait until the last minute
What to Do If You’re Having Trouble Paying Your WakeMed Bill
Healthcare costs can be significant, and sometimes it’s difficult to pay your bill in full. WakeMed offers solutions for those facing financial challenges:
Payment Plans
If you can’t pay your entire bill at once, WakeMed offers payment plan options. These allow you to spread your payments over time, making them more manageable for your budget.
Financial Assistance
WakeMed provides financial assistance programs for qualified patients. These programs can reduce your financial responsibility based on your income and other factors.
Charity Care
In some cases, WakeMed may offer charity care for those who meet specific financial criteria. This can significantly reduce or even eliminate your bill.
Common Issues with WakeMed Bill Pay and Solutions
JavaScript Error
Problem: You see the error message “Please enable JavaScript in your browser before using this site.”
Solution: Enable JavaScript in your browser settings. Each browser has different steps:
- For Chrome: Go to Settings > Privacy and Security > Site Settings > JavaScript
- For Firefox: Go to Options > Privacy & Security > Permissions
- For Edge: Go to Settings > Cookies and site permissions > JavaScript
Can’t Find Guarantor Information
Problem: You don’t know where to find your guarantor ID on your statement.
Solution: Look at the upper portion of your WakeMed statement. The guarantor name and ID should be clearly listed there.
Multiple Visit Accounts
Problem: You have multiple visit accounts and aren’t sure which one to pay.
Solution: Each visit account represents a separate medical encounter. Check the dates and services listed on your bill to identify which visit account you want to pay.
Understanding Your WakeMed Bill
Your WakeMed bill contains several important sections:
- Patient Information – Confirms who received the services
- Guarantor Information – Identifies who is responsible for payment
- Visit Information – Details about the date and type of services
- Charges – Itemized list of services provided
- Insurance Information – What your insurance covered
- Patient Responsibility – The amount you need to pay
- Payment Options – Instructions for different payment methods
Taking a few minutes to review each section can help you better understand exactly what you’re paying for.
MyChart Mobile App for WakeMed Bill Pay
For even greater convenience, WakeMed offers a MyChart mobile app that allows you to pay your bills from your smartphone or tablet. The app provides all the same functionality as the website, but in a mobile-friendly format.
Benefits of using the mobile app include:
- Pay bills while on the go
- Receive push notifications about new bills
- Access your payment history
- Store payment methods securely
- Schedule future payments
The app is available for both iOS and Android devices through the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
Managing your WakeMed bills doesn’t have to be complicated. With multiple payment options, including the convenient online guest pay portal, you can choose the method that works best for your situation. Remember that the WakeMed billing team is available to help if you have questions or concerns about your bill.
By understanding the terminology on your bill, knowing your payment options, and taking advantage of resources like payment plans or financial assistance when needed, you can handle your WakeMed bills with confidence.
Don’t forget that creating a MyChart account offers additional benefits like saved payment methods, payment history, and detailed billing information. If you’re a regular WakeMed patient, it might be worth taking a few minutes to sign up.
Do you offer financing for patients?
WakeMed has engaged Commerce Bank to provide health services financing to help individuals pay medical bills over time through monthly payments. No credit screening is required, the loans are offered with zero interest, and multiple accounts can be combined into one payment.
To enroll your accounts with Commerce Bank, please log into WakeMed MyChart. Please navigate to the Billing Summary page to set up a payment plan. If you do not have a WakeMed MyChart account and do not wish to create one, please self-enroll your accounts with Commerce Bank. If you are interested in learning more, please contact WakeMed Patient Financial Services by calling 919-350-8359.
What types of assistance does WakeMed provide?
Uninsured Discount
WakeMed offers uninsured patients an automatic 30% discount for physician services and 62% for hospital services not covered under any other pre-arranged discount or for which a third party may have responsibility. This discount will be automatically applied to your bill. This discount only applies if there is no other source of payment, such as health insurer or a third party who is or may be liable for your medical expenses.
Eligibility for Medicaid or other Government Assistance
WakeMed provides financial counselors that can help you determine if you may be eligible for Medicaid, or other government assistance.
They are available to all patients upon request throughout or following the time you receive care.
Medical bill that was already paid causes patient year of stress
FAQ
What is the phone number for WakeMed bill pay?
Please call Patient Financial Services at 919-350-8359 or toll free 877-498-4490.
How to set up WakeMed MyChart?
- Direct Link: Your provider’s office or care team can send you a direct link. …
- Activation Code: An activation code is printed on your After Visit Summary. …
- Request an Account: You can request an account online by visiting MyChart.WakeMed.org, selecting Sign Up Now and Sign Up Online.
What is the phone number for team health bill pay?
If you experience any problems with our website, please call our National Patient Service Center at 1-888-952-6772 on Monday through Friday between 8am and 7pm ET or on Saturday between 10am and 3pm ET. Your information has been received.
Is WakeMed part of UNC?
No, WakeMed is not part of UNC (University of North Carolina), but it is a major teaching site for the UNC School of Medicine.
