Do I need to pay the hospital before I am actually admitted?

Do I need to pay the hospital before I am actually admitted?

Arthur Shorr (Former COO and SVP of Cedars-Sinai Medical Center) gives expert video advice on: How will a hospital know that I need to come in for a medical procedure?; Can I request a private room for my hospital stay?; What should I bring with me for my hospital stay? and more...

In some instances, you may be required to pay for your hospitalization in advance. If you are going to the hospital for an elective procedure, such as cosmetic surgery, for which there is no insurance company, it is very likely that you are going to be asked to pay in advance. If you are being admitted for something of medical necessity and have no insurance or limited insurance, you may be asked to sign an agreement to take responsibility for those fees. It is very important to check with the hospital admissions department to make sure you understand your obligations before you are admitted. If you don't have medical insurance, it is sometimes possible to negotiate a discount if you are able pay for your care all at one time rather than in installments.