Two Friends in Texas Were Tested for Coronavirus. One Bill Was $199. The Other? $6,408.

[Elderberry]

NY Times By Sarah Kliff  June 29, 2020

It’s an example of the unpredictable way health prices can vary for patients who receive identical care.

Before a camping and kayaking trip along the Texas Coast, Pam LeBlanc and Jimmy Harvey decided to get coronavirus tests. They wanted a bit more peace of mind before spending 13 days in close quarters along with three friends.

The two got drive-through tests at Austin Emergency Center in Austin. The center advertises a “minimally invasive” testing experience in a state now battling one of the country’s worst coronavirus outbreaks. Texas recorded 5,799 new cases Sunday, and recently reversed some if its reopening policies.

Their tests came back with the same result — negative, allowing the trip to go ahead — but the accompanying bills were quite different.

The emergency room charged Mr. Harvey $199 in cash. Ms. LeBlanc, who paid with insurance, was charged $6,408.

More: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/06/29/upshot/coronavirus-tests-unpredictable-prices.html

[Fishrrman]

"The emergency room charged Mr. Harvey $199 in cash. Ms. LeBlanc, who paid with insurance, was charged $6,408."

That difference -- $6,209 -- represents the true "cost" of 3rd-party medical insurance (and government-paid insurance).

Perhaps ALL medical services should be mandated to be "paid in cash" -- and only between the provider and the recipient of service...