Who can I get the best price for a colonoscopy in Philadelphia area?

Question

I need a colonoscopy but am uninsured. Colon cancer is prevalent in my family and I am long overdue for this test.

I can pay cash. Does any medical facility offer free, low cost or discounts for cash for colonoscopy?

Appreciate your input. Shar

Answer 1

Do not hesitate to negotiate directly. You'll need to negotiate with both the hospital and the Dr since their billings will be separate and you will need to do this prior to having the procedure. To start with, offer to pay in cash payment in advance equal to whatever payment they currently receive from the largest local medical insurer (Blue Cross/Blue Shield) and then negotiate upwards in 10% increments if necessary. Even at 20% above BC/BS pay rates you would still be paying about 66-75% of what you would pay if you just let them send you a bill for full amount of services. Negotiate prior to the procedure and not after. Another way to negotiate is to ask what the cash price for a Canadian citizen would be for that procedure and then offer to pay that amount in advance. Negotiate with the supervisor in the Billing dept. for both the hospital and the physcian. good luck

Answer 2

Call the Fox Chase Cancer Center. They will point you in the right direction.

Answer 3

Call one of the medical schools. Explain your circumstances.
Sometimes, hospitals look for 'practice patients" for their residents or interns.
You might luck out.

Don't worry. no one would touch you without an experienced surgeon or gastroenterologist right by you.
Good luck!