Consumer Reports: Patients 'Overdose' on Debt As Lenders, Doctors, and Hospitals Push Risky Credit to Pay for Me...(following tips: -- Consumers should...),Health

-- Consumers should find out whether they qualify for free or discounted

care from their hospital.

-- When negotiating discounts or any payment terms, consumers should ask to

speak to the manager of patient accounts, and get any agreements in

writing.

-- By paying at the time of service, providers may be willing to cut

consumers' bills by more than 50 percent to avoid the expense of

billing.

-- Although hospitals generally structure payment plans for 24 months or

less, consumers should try to negotiate a longer term if necessary to

ensure that they can afford the monthly payment.

-- Hospital billing errors are common. Consumers should always ask for an

itemized bill and check it for accuracy.

-- If consumers must rely on credit, they should shop for the best

general-purpose credit card, ideally one with a low rate that can be

locked in for the life of the balance.

The material above is intended for legitimate news entities only; it may not be used for commercial or promotional purposes. Consumer Reports(R) is published by Consumers Union, an expert, independent nonprofit organization whose mission is to work for a fair, just, and safe marketplace for all consumers and to empower consumers to protect themselves. To achieve this mission, we test, inform, and protect. To maintain our independence and impartiality, Consumers Union accepts no outside advertising, no free test samples, and has no agenda other than the interests of consumers. Consumers Union supports itself through the sale of our information products and services, individual contributions, and a few noncommercial grants.