Why are ER Visits So Expensive?
You sprained your ankle, had a sudden fever, and like most people, went to the emergency room. But weeks later, you receive an exorbitant bill, and you’re left wondering: How could one visit possibly cost so much?
Why are ER Visits So Expensive?
ER bills are notoriously high, and many include unexpected charges for services or fees patients didn’t even realize they received. When you pay a visit to the ER, you’re not just paying for a doctor, but for the facility, equipment, staff, and even third party contractors-all of which may bill separately.
What Might Show Up on Your ER Bill?
Facility Fee: Hospitals charge a set amount just for using the ER. This cost can be up to several hundred dollars or even more, separate from any treatment.
Level of Care Code: ER visits are often coded from Level 1 (least severe) to Level 5 (most severe). The higher the level, the higher the charge. Some hospitals even promote patients to “higher levels” than warranted.
Physician Fee: ER doctors can bill you separately, as they may not be hospital employees.
Diagnostic Testing: Tests such as X-rays, CT scans, and even MRIs can add hundreds if not thousands of dollars to your bill.
Medication Charges: Common medications such as ibuprofen, or even starting an IV can be marked up significantly in the ER setting.
Observation Time: If you’re kept in the ER for monitoring but not admitted, this may result in hours of extra billing.
Example Scenario- Allergic Reaction Visit
A patient visits the ER for a moderate allergic reaction. They come in with a tight throat and a few hives, unsure of its severity. The staff checks vitals, issues an antihistamine injection and monitors for a few hours. The patient is eventually discharged with instructors to follow up with their primary care provider.
A few weeks later, they receive their hospital bill in the mail. It shows:
Facility fee- $1400
Medical Administration- $350
Emergency Physician Evaluation-$600
Observation monitoring-$500
IV Saline drip-250$
Totaling over $3000 for a short visit and one injection
Here’s the issue: Some of these charges may be inflated or unnecessary. Was the IV needed, or could the medication have been administered without it? Was the patient observed for multiple hours, or just 45 minutes? Reviewing records and the itemized bill can help spot any potential overcharges.
How to Appeal These Charges
Request an itemized bill from the hospital to view all charges.
Check your Explanation of Benefits (EOB) from your insurance to see what was covered or denied.
Compare your visit with the records. Were you given every item/service you’re being charged for?
Why Urgent Care May Be a More Feasible Option
Urgent care can be a faster and far more affordable alternative in non-life-threatening situations. Symptoms like sprains, mild fevers, minor cuts, or even ear infections can often be treated there for a fraction of the cost.
Urgent Care Facilities typically
Have transparent pricing
Shorter wait times
Lower charges for facility fees
If it's a serious or life-threatening emergency, such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, or head trauma, go to the ER. However, for less urgent issues, Urgent Care is a more affordable and convenient option, saving you time, money, and billing stress.