[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.