narmrn

I just canceled my lapband surgery which was to happen tomorrow. The Bariatric Center repeatedly advertised and stated in their printed literature that the Lap Band Procedure cost was approximately 20,000 dollars inclusive (as an outpatient). When I began the process for having the surgery I knew there was a possibility that I would be a self pay patient because I did not know if I met all the criteria to be covered by my health insurance. As it turned out my employer sponsored health insurance approved the procedure and my surgery was scheduled. I have already paid 2300.00 out of pocket to the surgeon for office visits, his portion of the surgery charges etc. I called the anesthesiology group (no patient balance anticipated) as well as the hospital to make arrangements to pay my co pays the day of the procedure. The Hospital where my surgery is scheduled as an outpatient told me my portion of the charges was to be 5100.00 plus. This seemed like a lot so I asked what the total charges were and was told 66,000 dollars. (This is just the hospital, not the surgeon or anesthesia). I asked how that could be...as I was quoted 20,000 as a self pay patient for hospital, surgeon and OP care. I refuse to have my health insurance billed 66 thousand dollars for a procedure I can pay 20 thousand for. Has anyone else had ta similiar experience? This seems almost criminal to me. I plan to call my insurance tomorrow and see if I can have the surgery as a self pay patient and then I will bill my own insurance....anyone done it this way??