No money up front , no surgery

Was absolutely thrilled to be getting my surgery this coming Monday.

I do not have health insurance. Because of pre existing health conditions it's way too pricey for me. I usually pay everything out of pocket because I work. I was told I could make payment arrangements because , without the hysterectomy I wouldn't be able to function enough to work my job.

Well, today, I get a call. Hospital wants $5000.00 up front. No money , no surgery. Was actually told "sucks to be you."

I just wanted to thank you for all the valuable information. I learned a lot while I was here. Say a prayer for me, light a candle. That would be great.

Good luck to all of you! I wish you all the best.

I'm so sorry to hear that - I hope you find a way to have your surgery and wish you all the best.

Prayers and gentle hugs to you. I pray that there is some way, some how, or some one who can help you get what you need. Remember we are all here on the journey too, just at different stages. Hopefully you will be back posting shortly with good news.

	Quote:
Originally Posted by Megestrix Was absolutely thrilled to be getting my surgery this coming Monday. I do not have health insurance. Because of pre existing health conditions it's way too pricey for me. I usually pay everything out of pocket because I work. I was told I could make payment arrangements because , without the hysterectomy I wouldn't be able to function enough to work my job. Well, today, I get a call. Hospital wants $5000.00 up front. No money , no surgery. Was actually told "sucks to be you." I just wanted to thank you for all the valuable information. I learned a lot while I was here. Say a prayer for me, light a candle. That would be great. Good luck to all of you! I wish you all the best.

I will keep you in prayer. God is able to do exceedingly and abundantly above all things.
Eventhough you work, did you see is you qualified for charity care. Is there a chance that your doctor could petition the hospital on your behalf. Don't give up.
It is ridiculous what they charge for healthcare. Everyone should have affordable insurance, it's shame.

Please keep trying. I send lots of ((HUGS)) to you
Take care

Oh Megestrix! I am so sorry! I can't believe they actually said " sucks to be you" That is horrible and completely unprofessional. My thoughts are with you and I am sending hugs!!!

I had a similar experience. I do have health insurance, with a high deductible. I was told I needed 1000 at the dr, and the same at the hospital and they would "finance" the rest of what I would be responsible for. I cried for two days. Then went to my dr, told her I would have to cancel and why. She flipped! Walked me to her office manager and told her to take what I could pay, and finance the rest. I called the hospital back and pushed a bit harder and was told about a hardship program. Applied, got it. Ended up paying the dr 200, before the procedure, and will pay them over time. The program at the hospital absorbed ALL of the 3300 I would owe them. This was NOT a charity hospital. Most hospitals have some form of this program. Keep pushing!!!' good luck

You could also look into PCIP insurance. It's a government-run program for people with pre-existing conditions.

The other thing to consider is a loan to pay the up-front costs.

I had to pay around $6,500 up front to the hospital and doctor and that's *with* insurance.

Apply for Medicaid in your state. I am told a denial letter will go a long way with a hospital.

You should definitely apply for Medicaid.
Also, if you are a member of any organized religion, speak with your Priest, Pastor, Rabbi, whatever to see if funds are available for people in your situation.
Good luck!

Hi Megestrix! I too had a similar experience, but I was actually walking back to the prep area at 5:30am the day of my surgery when the hospital office insurance worker came running out. She said (and this is while I'm walking back to have my surgery mind you!) that I would have to pay $5000 right now. The nurse that was with me just told the woman that she had to get me into prep ASAP and that my husband would take care of it later. The nurse was VERY upset and I was as well, like I needed that stress on top of going into surgery! The nurse told my husband to just go out to the front desk and tell the office worker that he was paying $500 and we'd work the rest out later. The hospitals do have the flexibility to offer greatly reduced services for those without insurance or folks like me who have large deductibles. I would recommend doing what Pcagle did and work out a reduced rate and a financial repayment plan with the hospital.

I still can't believe that someone would be so unsympathetic as to try to run me down as I am walking into the OR! I know you can work something out, and best of luck! My surgery was the best thing I've done for myself in a while!