The cost of food may be a hidden charge during the hospital stay.
Hospitals often present multiple categories on their bills in an attempt to break down patient fees. Some of the hospital expenses can be staggering, especially when patients look at the cost. One of the main charges is for the room, which is an expense that varies depending on the privacy of the room. Physicians and the tests they perform are usually broken down into individual hospital charges so patients can know how much they pay for a specific test and how much they pay for the doctor’s expertise. There are also some hidden hospital expenses that few patients think about, like food and medical supplies.
The room in which the patient stays during a hospital visit is one of the basic expenses of the hospital.
The room is one of the hospital’s basic rates, and its rate per night depends on how much privacy the patient has. For example, a room with multiple beds is often the cheapest room because there is little privacy. A semi-private room is usually a bit more expensive as it has two beds separated by a curtain. A private room has only one bed and is usually the most expensive room because the patient does not have roommates. Many hospitals offer options to patients, although the patient’s health insurance usually does not pay for an upgrade; privacy is not considered medically necessary.
Emergency care may be canceled for low-income patients who meet certain criteria.
Although hospitals pay their doctors’ salaries, they end up being reimbursed when patients pay their medical bills because medical fees are often among the most expensive hospital fees. Even if patients cannot distinguish their team of doctors, they often receive a bill with separate charges from each doctor. For example, patients can see the costs for the radiologist, anesthesiologist, and pathologist listed separately. Tests and services that doctors perform are also often listed separately, meaning patients may be charged for X-rays, ultrasounds, and echocardiograms, among others.
Hospitals also often charge patients for tangible items used during their stay. For example, medical supplies and medications, including anesthesia, are often listed separately on the bill. Food is another cost that patients must expect because someone has to pay for them to eat at least three times a day. On the other hand, some hospitals charge for cheap or reusable items that patients don’t expect to pay for. Some examples of hidden hospital fees include extra sheets, blankets, and pillows.