Hi,

While visiting Geneva one year ago I fell and fractured my spine, and was admitted to G.H.O.L. hospital in Nyon. Despite my U.S. Blue Cross insurance card they insisted on a 4,000-franc deposit up front.

I received excellent care, however, the insurance bit has been a nightmare. After endless phone calls and faxes Blue Cross finally notified me that they’d paid the hospital 100%, and it was up to me to get my deposit back. This was last October.

I live in Hawaii, which makes it a bit difficult to drop in. I’ve tried faxing the documents to G.H.O.L. several times, listing my phone, fax, email and postal information, and don’t get any response whatsoever. A French-speaking friend who lives in Geneva has tried phoning, but reports that they just stonewall her.

Any suggestions for where to turn next?

Thanks,

- Ted

Usually in Switzerland, patient pays the health-care provider and then the insurer reimburses the patient. Would have made your life simpler if Blue Cross had settled with you.

Write the hospital a registered letter. Can the US Embassy in Bern help you? Worst case you must engage a Swiss attorney to intervene.