Big insurance company backs down in billing dispute with Sky Valley man

A Sky Valley man claims United Healthcare sent him a bill for a policy he says he didn’t sign up for.

“I was very surprised, because of the fact they had assured me I would never have to pay anything, and now all of a sudden, I had to pay something,” said 66-year-old Frank Pellitier.

He said about 8 years ago, he signed up over the phone for a United Healthcare policy offered through AARP.

The policy provided low cost prescription drugs.

At the time, the retired mechanic was told there were no monthly premiums.

But a short time later, he began receiving a monthly bill.

By this past August, the balance had accumulated to $334.20.

“I couldn’t pay these bills, and i told them, I just couldn’t do it, and they demanded it from me,” said Pellitier.

When he started receiving the bills, Frank says he began a series of back and forth phone calls with United Healthcare, trying to get the company to stop billing him.

Finally, about a month ago, after tangling with the company for eight years, Pellitier called CBS Local 2 and asked us to “stand for him”.

On Frank’s behalf, we contacted the insurance giant and asked the company to look into the billing issue.

A couple days later, a company representative replied with an email writing:

“After careful review, we decided to forgive the outstanding balance on Mr. Pelletier’s account. We continue to encourage Mr. Pelletier and Medicare beneficiaries like him to ask questions when selecting coverage to ensure they are aware of plan details.”

The response left Pellitier feeling relieved.

“Oh, its a big rock off my back, and I really appreciate that, and I feel at peace now. I’m not worried they are going to take me to court and all these other things,” said Pellitier.

The representative for United Healthcare claims Frank signed up for a paid insurance plan years ago, but did not explain why the insurance company decided to zero out the balance in his account.

Pellitier offers advice for others considering going with United Healthcare for their insurance needs.

“Get all your information in writing. Get everything they say in writing,” said Pellitier.

Financial experts say it’s a good idea to review your insurance policies to make sure you are not being billed for coverage you are not receiving.