My surgery is Dec 1. I have been trying to find out how much my out of pocket expense is going to be. The hospital requires payment in full before you can have the surgery. I have called the hospital's insurance dept at least 15 times over the last few days. I have not been able to talk to anyone. I have left several messages, but no one calls back. I know I will not be able to get ahold of anyone next week with the holiday. So frustrating!!!! Plus the require a cashiers check as payment. I have decided to work mon and tues the week of surgery to keep my mind off of surgery. Any suggestions?

Can you walk into their office? I would take a trip there and ask in person so they can't brush me off. Those type of offices drive me nuts.

I have to go to the hospital next tuesday to get blood work done. I didn't even think about going there in person. I guess I will take some time off of work so I can deal with it all.

Is that a common thing, for hospitals to require that? I have had other surgeries before and the hospital always just billed me after. My doctor's office require me to pay $400 before surgery (which is their standard thing, not that amount just for me) .

Yes because it is an elective surgery. I know the 3 main hospitals in my area that do bariatric surgery require payment up front.

Finally I spoke to a person. They are requiring half to be paid upfront. They said my part would be $2700, but that is before aetna's adjustments to negotiated cost of care. From previous experience that can be quite a difference. Less than 2 weeks to go. I start my pre op diet the Sunday after Thanksgiving. Only 3 days of clear liquids and 3 to 4 protein shakes a day.

I know this is an old post...but trying to find out how much hospital is going to expect from me as well before surgery. What was your deducible?