Can you negotiate a medical bill?
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Who Has Leverage: Who has more leverage than you'd think over a hospital bill?
The patient: bills are often negotiable and many hospitals have financial-aid policies. Nonprofit hospitals in the US must have financial assistance policies. Source: IRS – Financial assistance policy (501(r))
The Best Move: Best move?
Ask for an itemized bill and about financial assistance. Itemized bills reveal errors; assistance programs can cut what you owe. Source: CFPB – What should I do if I can't pay a medical bill?
The Trap: Trap?
Putting the bill on a credit card before negotiating. Once it's on a credit card, the hospital is paid and you may owe interest. The CFPB suggests checking the bill and asking about assistance or an interest-free plan first. Source: CFPB – Medical credit cards and payment plans for medical bills