Reply #14: Thats not what it really costs [View All]

Most hospital bills list the "rack rate" for drugs and services. however one of the benefits of managed care is that a tremendous discount is applied to these rates. Most managed care organizations contract with hospitals based upon a published usual customary rate, and then pay only a portion of that rate (i.e. 60% of the UCR). The hospitals do significant volume with these companies.

Those without coverage also would never pay this rate unless they are really wealthy, had no insurance, and just paid the bill when it came in. If you object to the cost, the hospital will negotiate. If you can't pay, most states have a Medicare program for birth costs and childcare.

It is insane how much health care costs though. If only we killed all those pesky trial lawyers (being a trial lawyer, I say this with extreme sarcasm).