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Is an ER medical bill negotiable?

I would appreciate some comments on the following situation: I live in Los Angeles and have a health savings account and medical insurance with United Healthcare. Recently, I cut my finger and went to the locat ER. I got five stitches and two weeks later, got them removed. I was stunned when I got a bill for $1,500. The ER is IN my network of providers. I got the negotiated rate which was approximately 80% of the full rate. My question is: can I negotiate the $1,500 with the hospital? Thanks....

Public Comments

1. DUne one word. No. That's what hospitals due. The over charger you. Trust me, we tried, an argued, and the answer was no. Sorry
2. From my experience,I would have to say no.If the accident had been life-threatening,then I think it would be covered,100% or nearly 100%.But ER's are special, and each insurance plan has its own set of rules. However,if you lived in Canada,or France,for instance,you wouldn't be worrying about whether or not you could negotiate. Just saying... But anyway...it can't hurt to try!! Good luck.
3. Yes, I work at an Hospital as a nurse and you can call the billing department and tell them that you want to know what you are being charged for....and then if the bill is not what was actually done to you then you have every right to negotiable.