Question:
Is it legal for the hospital to require that I pay my out of pocket before my surgery

Is it legal for the hospital to require that I pay my total estimated out-of-pocket expenses before the surgery? I live in the state of Georgia if that matters.    — danagates (posted on February 1, 2003)

February 1, 2003
My hospital would have made me pay my deductible before surgery if I had not already met it.
   — kelly M.

February 1, 2003
The hospital requires the money up front because it would sometimes be very very difficult for them to collect the money after the service has already been provided. Let's face it, lots of people wouldn't pay for the service after they already had it done.... and the hospital would have nothing to demand back from them... Unlike a TV set, if you don't pay for it, the store can come and take it back. Good luck with your surgery, Carla.
   — Carla O.

February 1, 2003
Maybe you could check other hospitals in your area? As a self pay the hospital asked for 10,000 down with the remainder to be paid off within 2 years. Seems that if hospitals are willing to work on that situation they'd be willing to work with yours.
   — Shelly S.

February 1, 2003
In WA it is. I paid my entire bill, 13,031, before surgery. Actually several days before surgery. It's them covering their asses. Don't be offended, it's just business.
   — LionGirl2k