Final answer:
When faced with a high POS charge for a Medicare Part B item, contacting the Medicare Part B helpline is the recommended first step, rather than paying and appealing, ignoring, or switching plans. The helpline can assist with understanding and potentially resolving the issue.
Step-by-step explanation:
If a beneficiary believes the amount due at point of service (POS) for a Medicare Part B covered item is too high, the best course of action is to first contact the Medicare Part B helpline for assistance. The helpline can provide clarification, help understand the charges, and offer guidance on potential next steps. It's important not to ignore the bill, as it's unlikely to be resolved automatically, and beneficiaries should avoid paying the amount outright and then trying to file an appeal, as this process can be cumbersome and there is no guarantee of reimbursement. Switching to a different Medicare Part B plan is not typically a solution to a high POS charge, as these charges are usually determined by the Medicare program's coverage rules rather than the specifics of the individual plan. Instead, by contacting the helpline, the beneficiary can get immediate assistance and possibly resolve the concern without having to resort to appeals or plan changes.