When Cyndy Reddy learned she needed a hysterectomy, her primary care doctor referred her to an OB/GYN who confirmed she needed the surgery.

The hospital took her insurance information and copay. However, due to the hospital’s lack of price transparency, no one told her how much the surgery would cost or what her financial responsibility would be. 

Though the surgery went well, the complications started when the bills came. “I kept getting statements from the insurance company saying I wasn’t covered. Something was wrong,” Cyndy said.

Because she didn’t know what it would cost her upfront, she’s now plagued by calls and letters from a collection agency. Others have called inquiring about her assets and the value of her house, offering to set up a payment plan. Now she is being summoned to appear in court.

“I have this horrible cloud hanging over my head. I don’t have $64,000. I am not opposed to paying a legitimate hospital bill, but this would break anybody.”