Question for people who are/were self-pay

Hello- I will be having surgery as a self-pay. I have several questions and am hoping someone who was also self pay can assist. I am having the surgery at St. Lukes hospital in Toledo. The surgeons office is able to provide an exact breakdown/what is included for their fee ($4,500). However, the hospital is charging $14,000 but can not give a breadown or what is included. I just want to be informed in case of complications etc. Does anyone have any suggestions to finding out this info? Am I out of line wanting this in writing? When I asked the billing person I was directed to by the surgeons office, she made it seem like no one ever asked. Is it OK to ask how many SELF PAY surgeries they have done? Thanks!!

Jennifer, Just curious, but since you are self pay, have you compared hospitals in the area to see if the charges were different? The reason I'm asking. I have seen a number of postings from ladies here on the Ohio board who talk about a Dr. Lane who is at Bowling Green hospital (don't really know the exact name of the hospital) He moved here from Michigan and they say he is terrific. I guess what I'm getting at is that the hospital in Bowling Green is smaller and may be less expensive. Just a thought, Peg

Peg, Hospital size really doesn't have anything to do with it. Your best bet is calling and asking the programs you are interested in. Make sure you find out whether or not you have to pay for fills or they are included if you are looking at lap band. Cheaper is fine, just make sure you get someone who is experienced, don't sign up to be somebody's first patient just to get a discount! Good luck! Dr. C