Billing FAQ

• What is a pathologist?

  A pathologist is a physician who examines bodies, bodily fluids and tissue samples. They are also  responsible for the oversight of laboratory tests. A pathologist helps other healthcare providers in  diagnosing and some time treating their patients.  

  After medical school, pathologists advance their medical education in a residency training program to be  eligible to take board certification exams. Some then further this education with specialty fellowship programs in different areas of pathology. All pathologists are board-certified through the American  Board of Pathology.

• Why did I receive a bill from Brown Pathology?

  Brown Pathology contracts directly with facilities to provide services. Upon admission to the facility, you should have been provided and signed a consent for ancillary services which allows your physician or the facility to utilize the services of other facilities or physicians to treat  you. If you would like a copy of this information please contact the facility directly.

• Why did I receive a bill if I have insurance?

  There are a number of reasons why you are being billed if you are covered by an insurance plan.  Commonly these reasons are: 

  • Insurance information was not received, or the wrong insurance information was received from  the facility 
  • The insurance carrier processed the claim and denied payment.
  • The insurance carrier processed the claim and applied the balance to your co-pay or deductible,  or other out of pocket responsibility. 
  • The insurance carrier did not respond to the claim. 

  The Explanation of Benefits (EOB) from your insurance carrier should contain more specific  information about why you received an invoice. 

  If you feel like you received a bill in error or your insurance was not billed, please call our billing office.  Click here for their contact information. 

• Why did I receive a bill even though I wasn’t treated at your facility?

  If you have recently had any lab work or a procedure at an affiliated facility it is likely we provided  services. Our services are separate from any charges billed by the hospital, facility, or physician. Our  pathologists are directors over certain hospital laboratories, and they are professionally and legally  accountable for your results.

  You may see the following charges: 

  Professional Component: The professional component (PC) represents the supervision and  interpretation of a procedure provided by the physician or other healthcare professional 

  Technical Component: The technical component (TC) represents the cost of the equipment, supplies  and personnel to perform the procedure. 

• Is Brown Pathology part of my hospital or surgery center?

  Brown Pathology is an independent physician group that partners with hospitals and surgery centers to provide pathology services. While we are not employed by the facility, your doctor or care team may have sent your tissue sample to our lab for diagnostic review. This is a common and necessary part of your care, even if you didn’t interact with our team directly.

• Can I set up a payment plan?

  Yes, we understand that medical bills can be unexpected. If you need assistance paying your bill, our billing department can work with you to arrange a payment plan. Please contact us to discuss your options.

For Medical Providers

• What is your typical turnaround time for lab results?

  We prioritize fast, accurate turnaround. Most routine specimens are processed within 24–48 hours. Urgent cases can be expedited upon request.

• Do you provide on-site coverage?

  Yes. We provide on-site professional services where needed and can customize a service plan for your facility.

• Are you CAP or CLIA certified?

  Yes. Our laboratory is CAP-accredited and CLIA-certified, ensuring the highest standards of diagnostic quality and compliance.

• What specialties do you work with?

  We commonly partner with dermatologists, OB/GYNs, podiatrists, and primary care practices. Our team has subspecialists ready to support a wide range of diagnostic needs.

• How can I learn more about partnering with Brown Pathology?

  Reach out to our team via the Contact Page. We’re happy to set up a consultation or facility walkthrough.