Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is an uninsured patient?
A. An uninsured patient is a patient who has no type of insurance and is not covered by a health insurance policy or other health benefit plan. Government-sponsored programs such as Medicare and Medicaid are considered health benefit plans. Therefore, recipients of Medicare, Medicaid and other government-sponsored programs are not eligible for these discounts.
In addition, health discounts will not be provided to those who receive benefits from third-party sources, such as payments from auto or homeowner’s liability insurance.
Q. I understand the discount applies to uninsured patients for “medically necessary health care services.” What exactly does that mean?
A. The discounts cover procedures or services designated by your physician as being necessary for your health and well-being. Elective procedures – those which are not necessary for your health and well-being, including cosmetic or experimental procedures or those that are part of a clinical research program – are not covered.
Q. How does the CHRISTUS Care Advantage (CCA) plan work?
A. CHRISTUS Care Advantage is a non-insurance health care discount program and should not be relied upon as a substitute for health insurance coverage. Cardholders and their eligible dependents will receive a pre-negotiated discount for medically necessary services at CHRISTUS Hospital-St. Elizabeth and St. Mary, CHRISTUS Jasper Memorial Hospital, CHRISTUS outpatient and minor care centers in Southeast Texas, and from participating physicians. Some physicians may choose not to participate in the discount program. Physicians who do choose to participate are independent providers and are not employed by CHRISTUS Hospital or CHRISTUS Health. Discounts are applicable only when payment is made at the time of services. The program is subject to change or withdrawal at any time. If you obtain health insurance coverage, the pricing and terms of your insurer's provider agreement will apply.
Q. How is the discount level determined?
A. Physicians who participate in the program offer CCA members a minimum discount of 25 percent off covered charges. At CHRISTUS Southeast Texas Hospitals, as well as their outpatient and minor care centers, CCA members receive a minimum discount of 30 percent off covered charges.
You may be eligible for additional discounts at CHRISTUS based on:
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annual gross household income
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number of family members in your household
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type of health service required. Please ask to speak to a financial counselor at registration. They will help assure that you receive the maximum discount for which you are eligible.
Q. Is there a limit to the number of times the card can be used?
A. No. Members and their families may take advantage of the discount at all times.
Q. Is there a cost to participate in this program?
A. No. There is no cost to be a member of CCA.
Q. How can I find a physician who participates in the CCA discount program?
A. You will be provided with a list of participating health care providers. Click here to view the online version of independent physicians who participate in CCA.
Q. Once I am treated by a physician participating in the CCA program, am I able to use a different physician in the future?
A. Yes. Members may change doctors whenever they choose. You will receive a discount as long as you are treated by a physician who participates in CCA.
Q. How will the doctor’s office or medical center know whether I am a member of CHRISTUS Care Advantage? How about my family?
A. When you enroll in the program, you will be asked to list the names of your immediate family on the enrollment form. All family members receive the same membership card number. Simply present your membership card at sign-in, and your membership will be confirmed.
Q. Is there someone at my local CHRISTUS facility who can help me understand this discount and other payment options that may be available to me?
A. Yes. All CHRISTUS facilities have financial counselors who are available to discuss the discount for the uninsured, other discounts and payment options. To speak with a CHRISTUS financial counselor, please call (409) 899-7500, and select option 6.
Q. Who should I contact if I lose my card?
A. If your card is lost or stolen, your membership number will be deleted from the system and you will receive new membership identification. If you need a new card, please call 1-877-962-5595.
