Phantom billing occurs when a healthcare provider charges a patient for services that were never rendered. This can happen due to clerical errors, miscommunication, or fraudulent practices. Patients may receive bills for treatments, tests, or procedures they did not receive, leading to confusion and potential financial strain. To address phantom billing, patients should carefully review their medical bills and compare them with their treatment records. If discrepancies arise, they should contact their healthcare provider or insurance company for clarification. Reporting such issues can help prevent future occurrences and protect patients' rights in the healthcare system.