Real Patient Experiences
Beth Davis of Mentor, Ohio, was shocked when she received a $2,418 facility fee for a cortisone injection to treat carpal tunnel syndrome. Her total bill for the treatment was $2,667.45. “I wasn’t even observed. The doctor walked in and gave me a shot — there wasn’t even an assistant,” Davis explained.
Her insurance covered roughly $1,000, leaving her responsible for $1,618, which she is contesting. “We were never notified of this charge. I didn’t even know it existed,” she said.
Regulatory Gaps and Consumer Protection
Currently, 21 states offer some protection against facility fees. Nine states limit such fees for certain outpatient care, while 13 require providers to disclose them in advance. Despite these measures, consumer advocates argue that stronger nationwide rules are necessary.
Kelmar emphasizes the need for transparency and reporting: “We need hospitals to disclose the fees they are charging. People deserve to know upfront, not after the fact.”
The Broader Impact on Americans
Health care affordability is a major concern for U.S. consumers. A recent KFF poll found that two-thirds of Americans are worried about paying for medical care, with one-third expressing strong concern. Unexpected facility fees add to this financial strain, potentially discouraging patients from seeking necessary medical services.
Experts warn that these fees could have long-term consequences, including reduced preventive care and higher overall medical costs, highlighting the need for policy reforms to protect patients.
