Reading an Explanation of Benefits (EOB) is essential for managing your care costs. An EOB is not a bill, but a summary of how your insurance plan processed a claim for services.
To read your ABA-related EOB correctly, follow these steps:
- Check the Header Information: Verify the patient’s name, the provider (e.g., Heart Core ABA), and the specific dates the services were rendered.
- Identify the CPT Codes: Look at the CPT Code column to see which services were billed. Common codes for 2026 include:
- 97151: Initial assessment or treatment planning.
- 97153: Direct 1-on-1 therapy (billed in 15-minute units).
- 97155: Protocol modification by a supervising BCBA.
- 97156: Family or caregiver guidance/coaching.
- Review ABA Billing Modifiers: Look for two-character codes (like HM for RBT-led services or HN for BCBA-led services) that provide additional context on how the session was delivered.
- Understand the Financial Breakdown:
- Billed Amount: The provider’s standard charge.
- Allowed Amount: The discounted rate pre-negotiated between the insurer and the provider.
- Insurance Paid: The portion covered by your insurance plan.
- Patient Responsibility: The amount you owe, which may include copays, deductibles, or coinsurance.
If you notice a discrepancy between the EOB and your personal session records, you should contact your provider’s billing team or your insurance company’s member services immediately.