Mary Washington Hospital, in Fredericksburg, Virginia, has been suing its patients for medical debt. In a town of 28,000 people, the hospital has sued over 20,000 patients in the past five years.

As a self employed handyman, Martin’s health plan costs more than doubled, and his deductible went from zero to $6,000. An unexpected diagnosis led to unexpected surprise billings that added up, forcing difficult decisions affecting his family.

Claudia needed spinal surgery. She researched the physician based on quality and coverage by her insurer. Though he advertised in network, she was surprised to learn after the surgery that he no longer accepted her plan, surprising her with a $101,000 bill.

Judy had breast cancer and was over-infused with an incorrect protocol that harmed her. After using credit cards to pay balance billing charges to doctors and hospitals, she was forced to file for personal bankruptcy. She is on Medicaid.

Planning for a new child, David and his wife were told by their doctor to get simple genetic testing.  They were shocked when they received the bill.

Liz has two sons with a chronic, life-threatening health condition.  Throughout their continuum of care, she has had to commit to services without knowing the price.   She wants to understand who sets these high prices.