I have had some issues getting sent to collections before I get any bill, or not sending me the right bill and still sending me to collections after I try to figure out what I actually owe.

I learned to just pay like $10 a month regardless of what happens. Then if insurance decides to pay for it I get it refunded or it's put towards my deductible. The clinic sees me "trying" to pay for my bill and don't send me to collections now.

I doubt it would work everywhere, but it's beyond frustrating.