Medical Bill?

Question

Two months ago, I went to the ER because I thought I had appendicitis. I declined most of the tests because I had no insurance, but opted only for the CT scan without contrast because it was the most reliable.

I got a bill in the mail today for $13,000. My husband and I don't have nearly that amount. We're both still students and are living on an extremely tight budget.

If I talk to the billing department at the hospital, will they reduce the bill? Will they hunt us down if we don't pay? Also, is it better to get it over with and pay the money or wait in hopes that they will write it off?
We really, really cannot afford this.

I didn't have appendicitis, by the way, so the 13K is for a CT scan & a blood panel.

Gordon, I was shocked too! Utterly shocked.

Answer 1

First thing is to call the billing office and let them know of your financial situation. The very least they should do is give you a cash discount (usually 20 percent). But if youtell them your students, etc. they may do even better. Once that is done, let them know you will make payments. Medical offices and hospitals CAN NOT turn you in to collections as long as you make your payment on time every month. Just do not be late, that gives them the chance to turn you in. Let them know what payment you can make so it is within your budget (even if it's only $25 a month, they have to accept it. Do not sign or agree to any financial interest loans. best of luck, and I'm so glad you didn't have to have surgery!

Answer 2

Call the billing dept. They will work with you. They very well may write the whole bill off as charity care if you live under the poverty line. I am a single mom with no insurance, and I have a very small budget. When I broke my leg last year I got a bill for 30,000 for the surgery. It was all written off when I filled out some forms with my salary info on it.
If it can't be written off, they will take whatever payment you can afford, even if it's $10 a month. As long as you are paying something.

Answer 3

By federal regulations, every hospital offers charity care to a certain percentage of their patients. If you qualify, because of your income, they may reduce your bill by 50%. But I would ask them to send you an itemized bill of all of the charges. $ 13,000 seems very high for an emergency room visit. Many people also qualify for State Insurance for emergency services. Your hospital social work department can help you apply. Hope this helps.

Answer 4

$13000 for that?!?!?!?!?!?!?!? Man... these United States Health care people are worse than sex offenders!!!!!!!! In other countries your treatment would have been free!!!!!!!! I mean - really.... If you go to a McDonalds and get charged $1000 for a Hamburger you'd tell them to F off wouldn't you????? So why not treat these medical thieves the same way?

Answer 5

I don't think they will reduse the bill if thats what it costs ! ..But they will let you pay in some sort of payment plan yes ! ...If you don't pay like every month a little bit yes they will hunt you down and they will send you to the collections agency ! Hope this helps sweetie ..Good luck !

Answer 6

Welcome to America!!! That movie "Sicko" is right on the money! Unfortunately in America, everyone wants to profit from your suffering. Between the Insurance companies, Doctors, Pharmaceutical companies, and Hospitals..... EVERYONE wants to rip you off. They're all crooks. If I were you, I wouldn't pay it.

Answer 7

I am sure they will write it off, dont get tensed. just speak to the billing department. tell them ur status, they cant do anything besides talking to you.

TC

Answer 8

You should ask to see a social worker. She will be more aware of your options. You will have to pay the bill but she can find what alternatives are available to you.