Soozmc, I was a self pay as well and wanted to stay local so I could have my family and friends around. I had a hernia that needed repair so my insurance had to pay for that. My total out of pocket was $7,200 with Dr. Stowers & Dr. Wright. Had I not had the hernia, my out of pocket would have been $10,950. I can not say enough positive things about the doctors, the staff and the hospital at Wise Regional (Decatur, Texas). Plenty of hotels arounds the hospital that work close in giving you discounted rates if you are using the hospital.
Good luck on your journey!