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Since you're a doctor, may I ask you a question? Is possible to get a list of fees for services provided before I decide to get treatment? The reason I ask is because I think that would help foster competition and contain costs. At least it might in some areas where all the hospitals and clinics aren't owned by the same group, but that's another matter.

As an example, I recently received a bill for $301.00 for an ER visit. I whacked my finger with the meat cleaver and couldn't get the bleeding stopped. It happened on the weekend and my doctor's office was closed. All I needed durmabond and a tetanus shot. Even though my insurance will cover it, I probably would have tried to skip treatment had I known it was going to cost that much. I think other people would too if they knew , up front, how much the bill was going to be.

I'm not trying to start an argument or anything. I'm just curious if hospitals will give patients a fee schedule before service.

Thanks,

Not sure about ER's but certainly my fee schedule is available for review by patients. It is a violation however for me to ask another physician what his/her fees are for a procedure. It is considered price fixing.