[40four]

Fair enough, so still maybe not actual price without insurance. In that case at least. Makes me wonder if all facilities do this or something similar? Maybe that facility is particularly generous, or in the financial position to do that without the patient having to negotiate themselves. Maybe this could be an interesting app to make where people could report what that paid in the end :)

[jtbayly]

No, it's not normal. But being able to get a discount if you are uninsured is normal.

I've wondered whether the facility is particularly generous or whether it just starts with insanely high list prices. Now I guess I can find out. :)

But I still won't know what the final bill would be for the same procedure at a different hospital.

I want to see that app.

[beatgammit]

I really wish routine procedures had fixed prices so you know exactly what you're in for. Obviously there should be some limits, but you should know what you're in for with a low chance of surprises.

If prices were fixed, you could shop around if your procedure wasn't urgent. This ability to shop around means that prices should stay competitive, which will benefit people who don't have that luxury.