COVID-19, the disease triggered by the modern coronavirus, has no established immunity and can harm anybody. Although it seems to be more severe in older people with chronic health problems than in younger, happier people, this is not necessarily the case.

Right now, in America, this means that everyone might be experiencing a costly medical emergency. Many people are more afraid of an astronomical medical bill than of the pandemic itself, which means they may put off getting treatment.

Bills that are out of control Waiting in the wings

A Massachusetts woman took several visits to the emergency room before actually being checked and diagnosed with COVID-19, only to be hit with a bill for $34,927 for the treatment she got.

Previously, Congress issued the very first coronavirus help law, indicating that all COVID-19 tests ought to be free of charge, in spite of the fact that a few holes exist.

The bill makes little provision for the expense of actual virus-related treatment. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation’s new study findings, the total cost of coverage for an American with company health benefits would be $9,763 if no issues arise. When you are in the hospital and have injuries, the cost increases to $20,292.

When you get health benefits from your workplace, you will almost definitely exceed your out-of-pocket limit by then, meaning you will wind up spending even less out of pocket. So what about others who have off-exchange private insurance benefits or who are uninsured? What if you have benefits but are seen by a doctor who is not in your network?

What are your options?

We do not provide all of the details mentioned above to intimidate you into not getting help. If you suspect you have the Covid-19, see a doctor as soon as possible and do everything you can to block it from spreading. Furthermore, if you are faced with a massive bill, you will have other choices.

Taking care of charity and making bills in writing: Many hospitals provide charity care, but you should inquire about your possibilities. You will also want to get everything in writing so you can challenge the bills later.

Debt relief: The hospital might be happy to work out a payment plan for you, or a financial counseling service may be able to assist you in creating a budget that allows you to keep up with the payments. However, be careful about fraud characters out there.

Bankruptcy:   This could be the last option, but bankruptcy filings are expected to increase due to the Covid-19. A bankruptcy filing shall help you clear your medical debt and get a head start on your loans while also helping you have your house.

The most critical thing you can avoid doing once you get a large hospital bill for COVID-19 treatment is to reimburse it as soon as possible. “Do not pull out your checkbook,” advises an officer with Families USA, a leading customer protection organization. Before you do something, call the hospital and the state’s insurance department.