My question involves collection proceedings in the State of: CA
I went to the hospital in August of 2008 and paid my copay and until recently never thought about it again. I have sense moved to another state over 2 years ago.

In April of 2011 I noticed that there was a collection on my credit report but didn't have any knowledge of it. I tracked down the collection company and found out it was from the hospital I went to in 2008. The collection company had an inaccurate address for me.

I contacted the hospital and they said they received notice in 2009 that the insurance was cancelled and they requested the money back and I had to contact the ins. company. The hospital stated they had attempted to contact me but could not provide proof. They also said they had started collection in 2011.

I called the insurance company and they said they told the hospital in Feb 2009 but did not receive payment back until October 2010. They stated they never sent me a letter notifying me of the claim being denied.

Now, I have this on my credit report and they are trying to collect for the bill plus interest on something I was never notified on. Do I have any recourse?

It doesn't seem right that a hospital can take 3 years almost 4 years to decide to collect on a debt.

Any advice is greatly appreciated.