Spinal surgery
can be expensive depending on the severity of your injury and what type of surgery you have. Even if you have insurance, you may need financial help for spinal surgery costs and recovery. There are ways to get financial assistance or negotiate your medical bills for spinal surgery.
Advocate
If you are having a difficult time dealing with the bills from your spine surgery on your own, contact a claims assistant professional or a patient advocate to speak with the hospital, doctor's offices and insurance company. He can discuss what you need to do, facilitate payment arrangements and even negotiate the costs of your spinal care.
Negotiating
Contact the hospital to negotiate costs before your scheduled spinal surgery and inquire about assistance programs. Some hospitals and clinics will allow you to negotiate your medical bill before or after services are rendered. For instance, some hospitals will give you a discount or write off a portion of the bill if the amount that the insurance paid was high enough. Communicate early after you receive care to give time for the negotiating process. If you have a difficult time negotiating for your spinal surgery expenses, contact the head of the billing department and then work your way up the chain if necessary.
Government Assistance
There is government assistance for spinal surgery, which can help with some of your medical bills. Speak with your local health and human services or social service department to see what programs you might qualify for based on your income. Many states have indigent care programs that you need to qualify for after a specialist reviews your income and resources. These programs can act as a supplement to your health insurance for spinal surgery or cover all of the costs. Depending on the state requirements, you may need to make a co-payment that is based on your ability to pay.
Clinical Study
Contact a university hospital to see if you are eligible to participate in clinical studies. This might enable you to receive some treatment at a reduced or free cost, depending on what programs are available. Review any potential risks and benefits before you participate in a spinal treatment or surgery clinical study.
Private Foundation
Contact non-profit organizations and private foundations that provide support to patients with spinal injuries through grants, donations for recovery, physical therapy equipment or other needs.
