04.24.26 Clark Answers His Critics on Clark Stinks / PROM Pummels Purse!

Clark Howard fields listener feedback in the weekly "Clark Stinks" segment, where fans point out gaps or errors in his prior advice, often leading to clearer guidance on financial pitfalls.

Refining Advice on Medical Bills, Cars, and Healthcare

On an old medical bill, Clark agrees with Gary from Indiana that patients should first review their Explanation of Benefits (EOB) from the insurer, the "source of truth." EOBs detail charges, disallowed amounts, and contractual write-offs, revealing if balance billing is legitimate. Providers sometimes bill disallowed items improperly, so contacting the insurer helps verify debts before paying.

Diggler from Tennessee flags CarMax adding a $699 documentation fee and $180 business tax fee in some states, counter to its no-haggle past. Clark notes CarMax's struggles under new leadership and calls doc fees disguised markups. Key: Always request a purchase order or buyer's order upfront listing all fees, taxes, and junk charges to avoid bait-and-switch.

Mary highlights Certificate of Need (CON) laws, which require approval from incumbents before new providers can open, stifling competition and inflating hospital costs—the largest and fastest-growing slice of healthcare spending. Clark concurs, advocating antitrust action against hospital monopolies in metro areas.