er visit stitches cost

‘An Arm And A Leg’: How Much For Stitches In The ER? Hard To Gauge Upfront

By Dan Weissmann December 5, 2019

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Sarah Macsalka had heard the stories about how expensive an emergency room visit can be , even for a minor complaint.

So when her 7-year-old son, Cameron, tripped and gashed his knee in the backyard, the ER was not where her family headed first. In fact, Macsalka did just about everything she could to avoid paying a big, fat bill to get Cameron’s knee stitched up.

Ultimately, she failed.

Her adventure raises a big question: In a system where consumers are encouraged to “shop” for the best deal in health care, why is it so hard to get simple information, like a price?

On this week’s episode of “An Arm and a Leg,” we get some answers.

Instead of taking her son to the local emergency room for stitches, Macsalka took him to an urgent care clinic, one that provides patients with prices ahead of the service. There, the staff said stitching up Cameron’s knee would cost $150.

But there was a problem. The clinic didn’t have the topical anesthetic the doctor would need to numb Cameron’s skin first.

“And Cameron is like screaming and crying,” Macsalka said. “He doesn’t take pain well.”

So, reluctantly, the family headed to the local emergency room.

Macsalka tried to be a smart shopper there, too. When a staff member came to take her insurance information, Macsalka grilled him about how much the visit would cost.

“He was like, ‘I don’t know. Just walking through the ER [door] costs $600,’” she said.

To Macsalka, that sounded like a “facility fee” — a cover charge of sorts, separate from any health care services. And it sounded pricey. But she was over a barrel.

“The kid is still screaming and crying,” she said. “His knee’s a mess.” She wasn’t about to drive him back to the urgent care place and start over again.

They got the stitches in the ER. And, as it happened, the anesthetic wasn’t very effective.

Macsalka said her son’s screams were ear-piercing. “Yeah, Cameron’s lungs did not give out,” she said. “Those are very healthy lungs.”

As it turned out, Macsalka’s attempts to figure out what the final price would be weren’t very effective either.  A few weeks after the ER visit, she got a bill for the doctor’s services and paid it: $214 after insurance.

Then there was another bill from the hospital. One line: $2,824.

Macsalka went back into smart-consumer mode. She called the hospital billing department and asked if there had been a mistake.

Macsalka said the person she spoke with on the phone told her that “just walking through the doors” of the emergency room cost $4,200. That amount matches a number on her insurance statement — an amount before the insurance company’s negotiated discount.

After that discount, the bill was $2,824 ― and because Macsalka’s family had a high deductible, they were responsible for paying it all.

Macsalka said she tried another tactic and asked the billing representative: What if I didn’t have insurance? She said the billing rep told her: In that case, the hospital would accept 10% of its total bill to make sure it collected something. Without a negotiated rate from insurance, the total would have been about $6,000, so 10% would have been about $600.

It was more than Macsalka had hoped to pay. But less than $3,000.

“So I was like, ‘Fine, cool, I’ll take it.’ And she’s like, ‘Oh no. You can’t because it’s already gone through your insurance company. So that’s not an option for you.’”

Having insurance — with a high deductible — meant Macsalka was on the hook for the $2,800 charge.

She wishes someone could have told her the price upfront.

“I would’ve said thank you very much. And walked out and gone back to our lovely urgent care and been like, Cameron, bite on this stick,” she said.

For Episode 4, we also rounded up a hospital consultant and a journalist to better understand the perspectives of the hospital and insurance company.

Dr. Lisa Bielamowicz — founder of Gist Healthcare, and Sarah Kliff — who now covers health policy for The New York Times — share why health care price transparency is often so muddy.

Season 3 is a co-production of Kaiser Health News and Public Road Productions.

To keep in touch with “An Arm and a Leg,”  subscribe to the newsletter . You can also follow the show on  Facebook  and  Twitter . And if you’ve got stories to tell about the health care system, the producers would love to hear from you .

To hear all Kaiser Health News podcasts,  click here .

And subscribe to “An Arm and a Leg” on  iTunes ,  Pocket Casts ,  Google Play  or  Spotify .

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So when her 7-year-old son, Cameron, tripped and gashed his knee in the backyard, the ER was not where her family headed first. In fact, Macsalka did just about everything she could to avoid paying a big, fat bill to get Cameron’s knee stitched up.

Her adventure raises a big question: In a system where consumers are encouraged to “shop” for the best deal in health care, why is it so hard to get simple information, like a price?

On this week’s episode of “An Arm and a Leg,” we get some answers.

Instead of taking her son to the local emergency room for stitches, Macsalka took him to an urgent care clinic, one that provides patients with prices ahead of the service. There, the staff said stitching up Cameron’s knee would cost $150.

But there was a problem. The clinic didn’t have the topical anesthetic the doctor would need to numb Cameron’s skin first.

“And Cameron is like screaming and crying,” Macsalka said. “He doesn’t take pain well.”

“He was like, ‘I don’t know. Just walking through the ER [door] costs $600,’” she said.

To Macsalka, that sounded like a “facility fee” — a cover charge of sorts, separate from any health care services. And it sounded pricey. But she was over a barrel.

“The kid is still screaming and crying,” she said. “His knee’s a mess.” She wasn’t about to drive him back to the urgent care place and start over again.

They got the stitches in the ER. And, as it happened, the anesthetic wasn’t very effective.

Macsalka said her son’s screams were ear-piercing. “Yeah, Cameron’s lungs did not give out,” she said. “Those are very healthy lungs.”

As it turned out, Macsalka’s attempts to figure out what the final price would be weren’t very effective either.  A few weeks after the ER visit, she got a bill for the doctor’s services and paid it: $214 after insurance.

Macsalka said the person she spoke with on the phone told her that “just walking through the doors” of the emergency room cost $4,200. That amount matches a number on her insurance statement — an amount before the insurance company’s negotiated discount.

After that discount, the bill was $2,824 ― and because Macsalka’s family had a high deductible, they were responsible for paying it all.

Macsalka said she tried another tactic and asked the billing representative: What if I didn’t have insurance? She said the billing rep told her: In that case, the hospital would accept 10% of its total bill to make sure it collected something. Without a negotiated rate from insurance, the total would have been about $6,000, so 10% would have been about $600.

“So I was like, ‘Fine, cool, I’ll take it.’ And she’s like, ‘Oh no. You can’t because it’s already gone through your insurance company. So that’s not an option for you.’”

“I would’ve said thank you very much. And walked out and gone back to our lovely urgent care and been like, Cameron, bite on this stick,” she said.

To keep in touch with “An Arm and a Leg,”  subscribe to the newsletter . You can also follow the show on  Facebook  and  Twitter . And if you’ve got stories to tell about the health care system, the producers would love to hear from you .

And subscribe to “An Arm and a Leg” on  iTunes ,  Pocket Casts ,  Google Play  or  Spotify .

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How Much Do Stitches Cost Without Insurance?

• If you don't have health insurance, the cost to sew up that gash at an urgent care clinic will cost an average of about $275, depending on severity and location.
• If the doctor uses sutures that don’t dissolve and require a medical professional to remove them, you will face an additional cost.

The severity of the injury will also determine whether you can go to an urgent care facility to get stitches or if the wound requires a visit to the emergency room. Typically, for more serious lacerations that bleed heavily and expose your veins, muscle, bone, or fat, you should rush to the nearest hospital emergency room for treatment.

You fell and got a nasty gash that’s going to require stitches . You can easily get it fixed at an urgent care clinic or emergency room. Unfortunately, you don’t have health insurance. How much are stitches going to cost without insurance?

If you have insurance, your copay should cover your part of the cost of the stitches, in most cases. Otherwise, you’ll have to pay out-of-pocket to get the wound fixed.

If you don't have health insurance, the cost to sew up that gash at an urgent care clinic will cost an average of about $275, depending on how bad the injury is, where it is, and how many stitches are required, according to data collected for Solv ClearPrice TM . Deep gashes may even need two layers of stitches to repair the wound.

What factors impact the cost of stitches?

According to Solv’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Rob Rohatsch, several factors determine how much it costs to get stitches to fix an injury, including:

• How large and deep is the cut?
• Where is the cut located?
• How dirty is the cut and what type of cleaning/debridement does this need?
• Will you require anesthesia?
• What kind of material is used (stitches, glue, or staples)?

There also may be additional costs if you need to get a tetanus or Tdap shot to prevent further infection. Tetanus is a serious infection that can result in muscle problems, seizures, and even death. You will most likely need to get a tetanus shot if your laceration was caused by a rusty nail or implement, notes Dr. Rohatsch. A Tdap vaccine helps protect against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis. A tetanus shot will usually cost anywhere between $25 and $60, while a Tdap can cost a little more.

If your laceration results from an animal bite or scratch, you may be required to get treatment to prevent rabies, which could cost thousands of dollars and will also require antibiotics most of the time.

If your doctor sends you home with antibiotics or some pain medication after stitching you up, you can add the cost of those prescriptions to the bottom line. Without insurance, those prescriptions will most likely cost you more than if you had insurance.

Does it cost to have stitches removed?

Stitches are usually removed five to 10 days after they’ve been added. Some stitches will dissolve, so there’s no need to go back to the doctor or urgent care. However, if the doctor uses sutures that don’t dissolve and require a medical professional to remove them, you will face an additional cost. The cost for the removal of stitches is usually bundled with the cost of placing the stitches. You should inquire about any fees associated with the removal sutures.

Don’t even think about trying to remove the stitches yourself. Doing so can lead you to much larger and more expensive problems. A doctor can assess your injury to make sure it is healing correctly—with no signs of infection—when they remove the sutures.

Do I need to get stitches?

Not all cuts will require stitches to heal. If your wound is less than ¼-inch deep and ¾-inch long, you may be able to let it heal on its own without the need for stitches, reports MedicineNet. But, you should seek immediate medical attention for injuries bigger than that. Dr. Rohatsch recommends you should also seek medical attention if your injury is:

• A bite wound (from animal or human)
• On your face, hands, or genital region
• Bleeding profusely, even after applying pressure
• Jagged in appearance
• Dirty or contaminated
• Located over a joint

According to Dr. Rohatsch, you should head to the emergency room if your wound:

• Pulses or squirts blood
• Bleed bright red blood (as opposed to dark red blood)
• Doesn’t stop bleeding
• Could be associated with a fracture

If you are on any kind of blood-thinning medication, you should also have lacerations immediately attended to at an emergency room, according to MedicineNet.

Should I go to urgent care or the emergency room?

A visit to urgent care is usually more affordable because you are charged a flat rate that includes the procedure and the doctor fees. Meanwhile, for an emergency room visit, you are charged procedure and doctor fees and an emergency room fee that can be expensive.

Under no circumstances should you even think about trying to stitch up a wound on your own. By doing so, you’ll increase your chances of getting an infection that could land you in the hospital and cost you a lot more than it will to get stitches from a trained medical professional.

What happens if I don’t get stitches?

According to MedicineNet, there is usually a 12-hour window from the time you injure yourself until it is too late for you to get stitches. After an injury, your body starts the process of healing itself, and if you wait too long to get stitches, it may be harder for your wound to heal properly. You also increase your risk of infection by leaving a wound open for too long.

How can you keep the cost of stitches under control?

If you don’t have health insurance or have insurance with a high deductible, it’s wise and perfectly acceptable to ask your health provider some questions to get a better picture of what your actual costs will be for stitches. Some of the questions to ask are:

• What kind of stitches are they using, and what’s the difference in price?
• Will you need a tetanus shot or follow-up medications like painkillers or antibiotics?
• Is there a charge for the office visit on top of the cost of stitches?
• What is the price to have the stitches removed?

How Solv can help you find a place to get stitches near you.

If you are looking for an urgent care clinic that can stitch up a wound, Solv can help. Our lab finder can help you find an urgent care clinic near you.

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to get stitches without insurance, what factors influence the cost of getting stitches, will i need to pay extra for a tetanus or tdap shot, is there a cost to have stitches removed, under what circumstances should i seek immediate medical attention for a cut, should i go to an urgent care clinic or the emergency room for stitches, what happens if i don't get stitches for my wound, how can i manage the cost of getting stitches.

Michael is an experienced healthcare marketer, husband and father of three. He has worked alongside healthcare leaders at Johns Hopkins, Cleveland Clinic, St. Luke's, Baylor Scott and White, HCA, and many more, and currently leads strategic growth at Solv.

Dr. Rob Rohatsch leverages his vast experience in ambulatory medicine, on-demand healthcare, and consumerism to spearhead strategic initiatives. With expertise in operations, revenue cycle management, and clinical practices, he also contributes his knowledge to the academic world, having served in the US Air Force and earned an MD from Jefferson Medical College. Presently, he is part of the faculty at the University of Tennessee's Haslam School of Business, teaching in the Executive MBA Program, and holds positions on various boards, including chairing The TJ Lobraico Foundation.

Solv has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references.

• Stitches (Sutures, Wound Closures) (n.a.) https://www.medicinenet.com/stitches/article.htm
• price transparency
• emergency care
• health insurance
• urgent care

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How much does an ER visit cost?

$1,500 – $3,000 average cost without insurance (non-life-threatening condition), $0 – $500 average cost with insurance (after meeting deductible).

Average ER visit cost

An ER visit costs $1,500 to $3,000 on average without insurance, with most people spending about $2,100 for an urgent, non-life-threatening health issue. The cost of an emergency room visit depends on the severity of the condition and the tests, treatments, and medications needed to treat it.

Cost data is from research and project costs reported by BetterCare members.

Emergency room visit cost with insurance

The cost of an ER visit for an insured patient varies according to the insurance plan and the nature and severity of their condition. Some plans cover a percentage of the total cost once you meet your deductible, while others charge an average co-pay of $50 to $500 .

The No Surprises Act , effective January 1, 2022, protects insured individuals from unreasonably high medical bills for emergency services received from out-of-network providers at in-network facilities. The act also established a dispute resolution process for both insured and uninsured or self-pay individuals.

Cost of an ER visit without insurance

An ER visit costs $1,500 to $3,000 on average without insurance for non-life-threatening conditions. Costs can reach $20,000+ for critical conditions requiring extensive testing or emergency surgery. Essentially, the more severe your condition or issue, the more you are likely to pay for the ER visit.

Factors that impact ER visit costs

Many factors affect the cost of an ER visit, including:

Facility type – Freestanding emergency departments often cost 50% more than hospital-based emergency rooms.

Time of day – An ER visit at night typically costs more than the same type of visit during the day.

Level of care – The more severe your condition is, the more time and expertise it takes to diagnose and treat, and the higher the total ER visit cost.

Ambulance ride – An ambulance ride costs $500 to $1,300 on average, depending on whether you need basic or advanced life support during transport.

Medications – Oral medications, injections, or IVs needed during your stay all add the total cost of your ER visit.

Medical equipment & supplies – Any other supplies used to diagnose and treat you—such as a cast for a broken bone or bandages and sutures to close an open wound—increase the cost.

Testing – Each medical test is typically a separate charge. Tests may include urine tests, blood tests, X-rays, or other more advanced imaging tests.

Insurance coverage:

Out-of-pocket costs may be higher for those with high-deductible insurance plans.

While ER visit costs are generally higher for the uninsured, many hospitals offer discounts for self-pay patients.

ER facility fee by level

An ER facility fee ranges from $200 to $4,000 , depending on the severity level of your symptoms and condition. The facility fee is the cost to walk in the door and be evaluated by a physician. Other services you may need, such as lab tests, imaging, and surgical procedures, are charged separately.

To understand your ER bill: Emergency rooms rank severity levels 1 through 5, with Level 1 being the most severe or urgent. However, most of the billing codes for emergency room visits are reversed, with level 1 being the least severe.

Common conditions and procedures

The table below shows the average ER visit cost for common ailments. Prices vary greatly depending on how much testing and expertise is required to accurately diagnose and treat you.

Emergency room vs. urgent care

An ER visit costs $1,500 to $3,000 , while the average urgent care visit costs $150 to $250 without insurance. Urgent care facilities can treat most non-life-threatening conditions and typically have less wait time than the ER. For more detail, check out our guide comparing the cost of an emergency room vs. urgent care .

Other alternatives to the ER for less serious health issues include primary care, telemedicine, and free clinics. Check with the National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics to find a free clinic near you.

FAQs about ER visit costs

Why are er visits so expensive.

ER visits are expensive because emergency rooms run on a 24-hour schedule and require a large and wide range of staff, including front desk personnel, maintenance, nurses, doctors, and surgeons. ERs also run and maintain a lot of expensive equipment and need a constant supply of medications and medical supplies.

While ER visits can be expensive, ER bills are negotiable. If you receive an unexpectedly large ER bill, ask for a discount and question the coding.

Does insurance cover ER visits?

Insurance typically covers some or all of an ER visit, though you may need to meet a deductible first, depending on the plan. The Affordable Care Act requires insurance providers to cover ER visits for "emergency medical conditions" without prior authorization and regardless of whether they are in or out-of-network.

An "emergency medical condition" is considered something so severe that a reasonable person would seek help right away to avoid serious harm.

When should you go to the ER?

You should go to the ER for any serious, potentially life-threatening symptoms, including:

Trouble breathing

Serious head injury

Sudden severe pain

Severe burn

Severe allergic reaction

Major broken bones

Uncontrollable bleeding

Suddenly feeling weak or unable to move, speak, or walk

Sudden change in vision

Sudden confusion

Fever that does not resolve with over-the-counter medicine

Tips to reduce your ER bill

An ER visit can cost thousands of dollars, even if you have insurance. Here are some guidelines to ensure you are not overpaying:

Determine if you truly need an emergency room. If your health issue is not life threatening, consider going to an urgent care facility instead as the cost for the same care can be much less.

Go to a hospital-based ER. Freestanding ER centers typically cost much more than a hospital-based emergency room.

Call ahead to confirm payment options and the current wait time.

Ask about costs up front. If you are uninsured, consider asking the following questions to prevent you from surprises on your future bill:

Do you have discounted pricing for patients without insurance?

Will it cost less if I pay with cash?

What will the fee be for my specific issue?

Do you think I will need additional tests, and what will they cost?

How much do you charge for X-rays?

If I need medication, how much will it cost?

Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.

• An emergency room visit typically is covered by health insurance. For patients covered by health insurance, out-of-pocket cost for an emergency room visit typically consists of a copay, usually $50-$150 or more, which often is waived if the patient is admitted to the hospital. Depending on the plan, costs might include coinsurance of 10% to 50%.
• For patients without health insurance, an emergency room visit typically costs from $150-$3,000 or more, depending on the severity of the condition and what diagnostic tests and treatment are performed. In some cases, especially where critical care is required and/or a procedure or surgery is performed, the cost could reach $20,000 or more. For example, at Park Nicollet Methodist Hospital in Minnesota, a low-level emergency room visit, such as for a minor laceration, a skin rash or a minor viral infection, costs about $150 ; a moderate-level visit, such as for a urinary tract infection with fever or a head injury without neurological symptoms, about $400 ; and a high-level visit, such as for chest pains that require multiple diagnostic tests or treatments, or severe burns or ingestion of a toxic substance, about $1,000, not including the doctor fees. At Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center[ 1 ] , a low-level emergency room visit costs about $220, including hospital charge and doctor fee, with the uninsured discount, while a moderate-level visit costs about $610 and a high-level visit about $1,400 .
• Services, diagnostic tests and laboratory fees add to the final bill. For example, Wooster Community Hospital, in Ohio, charges about $170 for a simple suture, $200 for a complex suture, about $170 for a minor procedure and about $400 for a major procedure, not including doctor fees, medicine or supplies.
• A doctor fee could add hundreds or thousands of dollars to the final cost. For example, at Grand Lake Health System[ 2 ] in Ohio, an emergency room doctor charges about $100 for basic care, such as a wound recheck or simple laceration repair; about $300 for mid-level care, such as treatment of a simple fracture; about $870 for advanced-level care, such as frequent monitoring of vital signs and ordering multiple diagnostic tests, administering sedation or a blood transfusion for a seriously injured or ill patient; and about $1,450 for critical care, such as major trauma care or major burn care that could include chest tube insertion and management of IV medications and ventilator for a patient with a complex, life-threatening condition. At the Kettering Health Network, in Ohio, a low-level visit costs about $350, a high-level visit costs about $2,000 and critical care costs almost $1,700 for the first hour and $460 for each additional half hour; ER procedures or surgeries cost $460-$2,300 .
• According to the U.S. Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality[ 3 ] the average emergency room expense in 2008 was $1,265 .
• According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in 2008, about 18%of emergency room patients waited less than 15 minutes to see a doctor, about 37%waited 15 minutes to an hour, about 15% waited one to two hours, about 5% waited two to three hours, about 2% waited three to four hours, and about 1.5% waited four to six hours.
• In some cases, the doctor might recommend the patient be admitted to the hospital. The American College of Emergency Physicians Foundation offers a guide[ 4 ] on what to expect.
• An ambulance ride typically costs $400-$1,200 or more, depending on the location and services performed.
• An urgent care center offers substantial savings for more minor ailments. DukeHealth.org offers a guide[ 5 ] on when to seek urgent care. An urgent care visit typically costs between 20% and 50% of the cost of an emergency room visit. MainStreetMedica.com offers a cost-comparison tool for common ailments.
• Hospitals often offer discounts of up to 50% or more for self-pay/uninsured emergency room patients. For example, Ventura County Medical Center[ 6 ] in California offers ER visits, including the doctor fee and emergency room fee but not including lab tests, X-rays or procedures, for $150 for patients up to 200% of the federal poverty level, for $225 for patients between 200% and 500% of the federal poverty level and $350 for patients from 500% to 700% of the federal poverty level.
• The American College of Emergency Physicians Foundation offers a primer[ 7 ] on when to go to the emergency room.
• In most cases, it is recommended to go to the nearest emergency room. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services offers a hospital-comparison tool[ 8 ] that lists hospitals near a chosen zip code.
•   patients.dartmouth-hitchcock.org/billing_questions/out_of_pocket_estimator_dhmc.ht...
•   www.grandlakehealth.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=106&Itemid=60
•   meps.ahrq.gov/mepsweb/data_stats/tables_compendia_hh_interactive.jsp?_SERVICE=MEPS...
•   www.EmergencyCareforYou.org/VitalCareMagazine/ER101/Default.aspx?id=1288
•   www.dukehealth.org/health_library/health_articles/wheretogo
•   resources.vchca.org/documents/SELF%20PAY%20DISCOUNT%20GRID%20-%20BOARD%20LETTER%20...
•   www.EmergencyCareforYou.org/YourHealth/AboutEmergencies/Default.aspx?id=26018
•   www.medicare.gov/hospitalcompare/(S(efntd2saaeir2l5pgarwuvvg))/search.aspx?AspxAut...

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Why An ER Visit Can Cost So Much — Even For Those With Health Insurance

Terry Gross

Vox reporter Sarah Kliff spent over a year reading thousands of ER bills and investigating the reasons behind the costs, including hidden fees, overpriced supplies and out-of-network doctors.

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Financial Tips, Guides & Know-Hows

Home > Finance > How Much Do Stitches Cost Without Insurance?

How Much Do Stitches Cost Without Insurance?

Published: November 15, 2023

Find out the cost of stitches without insurance and explore your financial options for medical expenses. Save money and plan your finances wisely!

(Many of the links in this article redirect to a specific reviewed product. Your purchase of these products through affiliate links helps to generate commission for LiveWell, at no extra cost. Learn more )

Table of Contents

Introduction, understanding stitches and their importance, factors affecting the cost of stitches without insurance, average cost of stitches without insurance, additional costs to consider, ways to save money on stitches without insurance.

Accidents happen when we least expect them, and sometimes those accidents result in cuts or lacerations that require medical attention. When these situations arise, it’s important to seek immediate treatment, which often involves getting stitches. However, not everyone has health insurance to cover the cost of medical procedures. So, if you find yourself in need of stitches but without insurance, how much can you expect to pay?

In this article, we will explore the factors that affect the cost of stitches without insurance, the average expenses you may incur, as well as additional costs to consider. We will also provide you with some tips on how to save money if you find yourself in this situation. Understanding the potential costs can help you make informed decisions about your healthcare options and budget accordingly.

It’s important to note that the information provided here is intended as a general guide, and the actual cost of stitches without insurance can vary based on several factors. Consulting with a healthcare professional is always the best way to get accurate pricing information specific to your situation.

Now, let’s delve into the importance of stitches and why seeking timely medical care is crucial.

Stitches, also known as sutures, are a common medical procedure used to close wounds and promote proper healing. They are typically used for deep cuts or lacerations that would benefit from the support and alignment provided by sutures. Stitches help to bring the edges of the wound together, reducing the risk of infection and minimizing scarring.

When a wound is left open or improperly treated, it can lead to complications such as delayed healing, increased risk of infection, and potential damage to underlying tissues. Furthermore, the longer a wound remains open, the more challenging it becomes to close and achieve optimal healing. Stitches play a vital role in ensuring that wounds heal correctly and minimize the risk of long-term complications.

It is important to seek medical attention for wounds that may require stitches as soon as possible. Delaying treatment can lead to more serious complications and result in higher medical costs in the long run. Infections, the need for more extensive wound reconstruction, and potential scarring are just a few examples of the outcomes that can arise from neglecting to treat a wound promptly.

In the next section, we will explore the factors that can influence the cost of stitches without insurance and provide you with a better understanding of the potential expenses you might encounter.

When it comes to the cost of stitches without insurance, several factors come into play. Understanding these factors can help you anticipate the potential expenses you may face. Here are some key factors that can influence the cost:

• Location: The location of the wound can impact the cost of stitches. For example, a wound on a visible or sensitive area like the face or hands may require the expertise of a specialist, which can drive up the cost.
• Severity of the Wound: The severity of the cut or laceration will also affect the cost. Deeper and longer wounds may require more stitches, increasing the complexity of the procedure and the associated expenses.
• Healthcare Provider: Different healthcare providers may have varying pricing structures. Hospital emergency rooms typically have higher costs compared to urgent care centers or walk-in clinics. It is essential to research and compare prices to find an affordable option.
• Additional Services: In some cases, additional services may be necessary along with the stitches. This can include wound cleaning, anesthesia, or Tetanus shot administration. These additional services can contribute to the overall cost of the procedure.
• Geographical Location: The cost of healthcare can vary based on geographical location. Factors such as the cost of living, regional healthcare policies, and medical service availability can impact the overall price.

It’s important to keep in mind that these factors are not exhaustive and can vary depending on your specific circumstances and location. Consulting with a healthcare professional or speaking directly with medical facilities will give you a better idea of the costs you can expect to incur for stitches without insurance.

Next, we will discuss the average cost of stitches without insurance, providing you with a baseline to understand the potential expenses involved.

The cost of stitches without insurance can vary significantly depending on various factors. On average, you can expect to pay between $200 and $2,500 for stitches without insurance in the United States. However, the final cost can be higher or lower depending on the severity of the wound, the location of the healthcare provider, and other factors previously mentioned.

For less severe wounds that can be treated at an urgent care center or walk-in clinic, the cost of stitches typically ranges from $200 to $500. These facilities often offer more affordable options compared to hospital emergency rooms. However, keep in mind that more complex or extensive wounds may require treatment at a hospital, where the cost can be significantly higher.

In some cases, the cost of stitches may also depend on the type of suture material used. There are different types of sutures, such as absorbable and non-absorbable sutures, with varying costs. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate type of suture based on the wound, which will impact the overall cost.

Additionally, it’s worth noting that the cost of stitches may not include any necessary follow-up visits or medications. These additional expenses can add to the overall cost of treatment.

Remember, these figures are just averages, and the actual cost can differ depending on your specific circumstances. It is always recommended to contact healthcare providers in your area and inquire about their pricing to get a more accurate estimate for your particular situation.

Now, let’s explore some additional costs that you should take into consideration when seeking stitches without insurance.

When budgeting for stitches without insurance, it is important to consider potential additional costs that may be involved. These costs can vary depending on your specific situation and the healthcare provider you choose. Here are some additional expenses you should take into account:

• Wound Cleaning: Depending on the nature of the wound, it may require cleaning or irrigation before stitching. This additional procedure can incur separate charges.
• Anesthesia: For more complex or painful procedures, anesthesia may be required to numb the area. Anesthesia administration can be an additional cost to consider.
• Tetanus Shot: If your wound is caused by a dirty or contaminated object, a tetanus shot may be necessary to prevent infection. The cost of a tetanus shot may be an additional expense to factor into your budget.
• Follow-up Visits: After receiving stitches, you may need to schedule follow-up visits to monitor the healing progress and remove the stitches. These visits can come with separate charges.
• Pain Medication or Antibiotics: Depending on the severity of the wound, your healthcare provider may prescribe pain medication or antibiotics to aid in the healing process. The cost of these medications may be an additional expense.

It is crucial to discuss these potential additional costs with your healthcare provider to understand what is included in the initial cost estimate and what may be charged separately. Planning for these extra expenses will help you avoid any unexpected financial burdens.

Next, we will explore some practical ways to save money on stitches without insurance.

While receiving stitches without insurance can be costly, there are several strategies you can employ to help save money on the overall expenses:

• Explore Affordable Healthcare Providers: Research and compare prices at different healthcare facilities, including urgent care centers, walk-in clinics, and community health centers. These options often offer more affordable rates compared to hospital emergency rooms.
• Ask for Self-Pay Discounts: Some healthcare providers offer discounts for patients paying upfront or without insurance. Don’t be afraid to inquire about available discounts or negotiate the price.
• Consider Community Clinics or Free Clinics: Check if there are any community clinics or free clinics in your area that provide basic medical services. These clinics may offer reduced-cost or even free stitches for individuals without insurance.
• Discuss Payment Plans: If the overall cost is a financial burden, talk to the healthcare provider about setting up a payment plan. Many facilities are willing to work out payment arrangements to make the expenses more manageable.
• Seek Financial Assistance: Inquire about any financial assistance programs or charitable organizations that may help cover the cost of medical procedures for individuals without insurance. These resources can provide much-needed support during challenging times.
• Consider Telemedicine: In certain cases, virtual visits through telemedicine platforms may provide a cost-effective solution. Some healthcare providers offer virtual consultations for minor injuries that may not require in-person examination.

It’s important to balance cost-saving measures with the quality of care you receive. While affordability is crucial, prioritizing a qualified healthcare provider who can provide the necessary expertise is equally important to ensure optimal healing and reduce the risk of complications.

Remember, prevention is always better than cure. Investing in health insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind in the event of unexpected medical needs.

Finally, let’s wrap up this article.

When faced with the need for stitches without insurance, it’s important to be aware of the potential costs and available options to make informed decisions about your healthcare. While the actual cost of stitches can vary depending on several factors, including the severity of the wound and the healthcare provider, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention to prevent complications and ensure proper healing.

We explored the factors that can affect the cost of stitches without insurance, including the location of the wound, the severity of the injury, and the type of healthcare provider. The average cost of stitches without insurance typically ranges from $200 to $2,500, but it’s essential to consult with healthcare professionals and facilities in your area for accurate pricing information.

Additionally, we discussed the importance of considering additional costs such as wound cleaning, anesthesia, follow-up visits, and necessary medications. Planning for these expenses can help you budget effectively.

Fortunately, there are ways to save money on stitches without insurance. Exploring affordable healthcare providers, asking for self-pay discounts, and considering community or free clinics are just a few strategies to consider. It’s also worth discussing payment plans and exploring financial assistance options if needed.

Remember, seeking stitches without insurance is just one aspect of medical care. Prioritizing your overall well-being and exploring preventive measures, such as investing in health insurance, is essential to ensure comprehensive healthcare coverage.

Always consult with healthcare professionals to get accurate pricing and advice based on your specific situation. Your health is invaluable, and taking proactive steps to address injuries and wounds is crucial to your overall well-being and quality of life.

Stay informed, stay safe, and seek appropriate medical attention when needed.

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How Much Does an ER Visit Cost? Free Local Cost Calculator 

It’s true that you can’t plan for a medical emergency, but that doesn’t mean you have to be surprised when it’s time to pay your hospital bill. In 2021, the U.S. government enacted price transparency rules for hospitals in order to demystify health care costs. That means it should be easier to get answers to questions like how much an ER visit costs.

While the question seems pretty straightforward, the answer is more complicated. Your cost will vary based on factors such as if you’re insured, whether you’ve met your deductible, the type of plan you have, and what your plan covers. 

There is a lot to consider. This guide will take you through specific scenarios and answer questions about insurance plans, deductibles, co-payments, and discuss scenarios such as how much it costs if you go to the ER when it isn’t an emergency. 

You’ll learn a few industry secrets too. Did you know that if you don’t have insurance you might see a higher bill? According to the Wall Street Journal , it’s common for hospitals to charge uninsured and self-pay patients higher rates than insured patients for the same services. So, where can you go if you can’t afford to go to the ER?

Keep reading for all this plus real-life examples and cost-saving tips.

How Much Does an ER Visit Cost Without Insurance?

Everything is more expensive in the ER. According to UnitedHealth, a trip to the emergency department can cost 12 times more than a typical doctor’s office visit. The average ER visit is $2,200, and doesn’t include procedures or medications. 

If you want to get a better idea of what an ER visit will cost in your area, check out our medical price comparison tool that analyzes data from thousands of hospitals.

Compare Procedure Costs Near You

Other out-of-pocket expenses you may incur include bills from third parties. A growing number of emergency departments in the United States have become business entities separate from the hospital. So, third-party providers may bill you too, like:

• EMS services, like an ambulance or helicopter 
• ER physicians
• Attending physician
• Consulting physicians
• Advanced practice nurses (CRNA, NP)
• Physician assistants (PA)
• Physical therapists (PT)

And if your insurance company fails to pay, you may have to pay these expenses out-of-pocket.

How Much Does an ER Visit Cost With Insurance? 

The easiest way to estimate out-of-pocket expenses for an ER visit (or any other health care service) is to read your insurance policy. You’ll want to look for information around these terms:

• Deductible: The amount you have to pay out-of-pocket before your insurance kicks in . 
• Copay: A set fee you pay upfront before a covered medical service or procedure. 
• Coinsurance: The percentage you pay for a service or a procedure once you’ve met the deductible.
• Out-of-pocket maximum: The most you will pay for covered services in a rolling year. Once met, your insurance company will pay 100% of covered expenses for the rest of the year. 

Closely related to out-of-pocket expenses like deductibles and co-insurance are premiums. A premium is the monthly fee you (or your sponsor) pay to the insurance company for coverage. If you pay a higher premium, you’ll have a lower deductible and fewer out-of-pocket costs whenever you use your insurance to pay for services such as a visit to the ER. The opposite is also true — high deductible health plans (HDHP) offer lower monthly payments but much higher deductibles. 

Sample ER Visit Cost

Using a few examples from plans available on the Marketplace on Healthcare.gov (current as of November 2021), here’s how this might play out in real life:

Rob is a young, healthy, single guy. He knows he needs health insurance but he feels reasonably sure that the only time he’d ever use it is in case of an emergency. Here’s the plan he chooses:

Plan: Blue Cross/Blue Shield Bronze Monthly premium: $394 Deductible: $7,000 Out-of-pocket maximum: $7,000 ER coverage: 100% after meeting the deductible

Rob does the math and considers the worst case scenario. If he does go to the ER, he’ll pay full price if he hasn’t yet met his deductible. But since both his deductible and his maximum out-of-pocket are the same, $7,000 is the most he’ll have to pay before his insurance kicks in at 100%.

Now imagine that Rob gets married and is about to start a family. He might need a different insurance plan to account for more hospital bills, doctors appointments, and inevitable emergency room visits.

Since Rob knows he’ll be using his insurance more often, he picks a plan with a lower deductible that covers more things. 

Plan: Bright HealthCare Gold Monthly premium: $643 Deductible: $0 Out-of-pocket maximum: $6,500 ER coverage: $500 Vision: $0 Generic prescription: $0 Primary care: $0 Specialist: $40

This time Rob goes with a zero deductible plan with a higher monthly premium. It’s more out-of-pocket each month, but since his plan covers doctor’s visits, prescription drugs, and vision, he feels more prepared as his lifestyle shifts into family mode. 

If he has to go to the ER for any reason, all he’ll pay is $500 and his insurance pays the rest. And worse case scenario, the most he’ll pay out-of-pocket in a year is $6,500. 

How Much Does an ER Visit Cost if You Have Medicare?

Medicare Part A only covers an emergency room visit if you’re admitted to the hospital. Medicare Part B covers 100% of most ER costs for most injuries, or if you become suddenly ill. Unlike private insurance and insurance purchased on the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace, Medicare rarely covers ER visits that happen while you’re outside of the United States.

To learn more, read: How to Use the Healthcare Marketplace to Buy Insurance

How Much Does an ER Visit Cost for Non-Emergencies?

When you have a sick child but lack insurance, haven’t met your deductible, or if you’re between paychecks, just knowing you can go to the ER without being hassled for money feels like such a relief. ER staff won’t demand payment upfront, and they usually don’t ask about insurance or assess your ability to pay until after discharge.

There are other reasons, too. You might be tempted to go to the ER for situations that are less than emergent because emergency departments provide easy access to health services 24/7, including holidays and the odd hours when your primary care physician isn’t available. If you’re one of the 61 million Americans who are uninsured or underinsured , you might go to the ER because you don’t know where else to go.

What you may not understand is the cost of an ER visit without insurance can total thousands of dollars. Consumers with ER bills that get sent to collections face some of the most aggressive debt collection practices of any industry. Collection accounts and charge-offs could affect your credit score for the better part of a decade.

Did you know that charges begin racking up as soon as you give the clerk your name and Social Security number? There are tons of horror stories out there about people receiving medical bills after waiting, some for many hours, and leaving without treatment. 

4 ER Alternatives Ranked by Level of Care

First and foremost, if you’re experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the closest emergency room. Do not rely on this or any other website for advice or communication. 

If you’re not sure whether your condition warrants immediate, high-level emergency care, you can always call your local ER and ask to speak to their triage nurse. They can quickly assess how urgent the situation is. 

If you are looking for a lower-cost alternative to the ER, this list provides a few options. Each option is ranked by their ability to provide you with a certain level of care from emergent care to the lowest level, which is similar to the routine care you would receive at a doctor’s office. 

1. Charitable Hospitals  

There are around 1,400 charity hospitals , clinics, and pharmacies dedicated to serving low-income families, including the uninsured. Most charitable, not-for-profit medical centers provide emergency room services, making it a good option if you’re uninsured and worried about accruing substantial medical debt. 

ERs at charitable hospitals provide the same type of medical care for conditions like trauma, broken bones, and life-threatening issues like chest pain and difficulty breathing. The major difference is the price tag. Emergency room fees at a charity hospital are usually flexible and almost always based on your income. 

2. Urgent Care Centers

Urgent care centers are free-standing facilities designed to treat patients with serious but not life-threatening conditions. Also called “doc in a box,” these ambulatory care centers are a good choice for treating stable but chronic health issues, fever, urinary tract infections, back pain, abdominal pain, and moderately high blood pressure, to name a few. 

Urgent care clinics usually have a medical doctor on-site. Some clinics offer point-of-care diagnostic tests like ultrasound and X-rays, as well as basic lab work. The average cost for an urgent care visit is around $180, according to UnitedHealth.

3. Retail Health Clinics

You may have noticed small retail health clinics (RHC) popping up in national drugstore chains like CVS, Walgreens, and in big-box stores like Target and Walmart. The Little Clinic is an example of an RHC that offers walk-in health care services at 190 supermarkets across the United States. 

RHCs help low-acuity patients with minor medical problems like sore throat, cough, flu-like symptoms, and other conditions normally treated in a doctor’s office. If you think you’ll need lab tests or other procedures, an RHC may not be the best choice. Data from UnitedHealth puts the average cost for an RHC visit at $100.

4. Telehealth Visits

Telehealth, in some form, has been around for decades. Until recently, it was mostly used to provide access to care for patients living in the most remote or rural areas. Since 2020, telehealth visits over the phone, via chat, or through videoconferencing have become a legitimate and extremely cost-effective alternative to in-person office visits. 

Telehealth is perfect for some types of mental health therapies, follow-up appointments, and triage. For self-pay, a telehealth visit only costs around $50, according to UnitedHealth.

Tips for Taking Control of Your Health Care

• Don’t procrastinate. Delaying the care you need for too long will end up costing you more in the end. 
• Switch your focus from reactive care to proactive care. Figuring out how to pay for an ER visit is a lot harder (and costlier) than preventing an ER visit in the first place. Data show that preventive health care measures lead to fewer illnesses and better outcomes.
• Plan for the unknown. It’s inevitable that at some point in your life you’ll need health care. Start a savings account fund or better yet, enroll in a health savings account (HSA). If you’re employed (even part-time) you already qualify for an HSA. A contribution of just $9 a paycheck could add up to $468 tax-free dollars for you to spend on health care every year. Unlike the use-it-or-lose-it savings plans of the past, modern plans don’t expire. You can use HSA dollars to pay for out-of-pocket costs like copayments, deductibles, and for services that your health insurance may not cover, like dental and vision services. 
• Advocate for yourself. There is nothing more empowering than taking charge of your health. Shop around for services and compare prices on procedures to make sure you’re getting the best prices possible.
• If you are uninsured or doing self-pay, negotiate your bill and ask for a cash discount. 

Estimate the Cost of the ER Before You Need It

It’s stressful to think about money when you’re facing an emergency. Research the costs of your nearest ER before you actually need to go with Compare.com’s procedure cost comparison tool . 

All you have to do is enter your ZIP code and you’ll immediately see out-of-pocket costs for ER visits at your local emergency rooms. It works for other medical services too, like MRIs, routine screenings, outpatient procedures, and more. Find the treatment you need at a price you can afford.

Disclaimer: Compare.com does not offer medical advice and is in no way a substitute for any medical advice received from health professionals. Compare.com is unable to offer any advice on any medical procedure you may need.

Nick Versaw leads Compare.com's editorial department, where he and his team specialize in crafting helpful, easy-to-understand content about car insurance and other related topics. With nearly a decade of experience writing and editing insurance and personal finance articles, his work has helped readers discover substantial savings on necessary expenses, including insurance, transportation, health care, and more.

As an award-winning writer, Nick has seen his work published in countless renowned publications, such as the Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, and U.S. News & World Report. He graduated with Latin honors from Virginia Commonwealth University, where he earned his Bachelor's Degree in Digital Journalism.

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$22K for 10 Stitches, a Year and a Half Later

— despite impending regulations, surprise billing still happens.

by Sophie Putka , Enterprise & Investigative Writer, MedPage Today October 28, 2021

One day in March 2020, during the height of the pandemic, Melinda Wenner Moyer's daughter, Jojo, fell off her bike in the driveway and cut her forehead on a rock.

After a quick consult with their primary care doctor, who said the 5-year-old needed stitches, and a trip to a nearby urgent care, which didn't think they could do the procedure without scarring, the mother and daughter set out for the emergency department. It was a 40-minute drive away, in Westchester, New York.

They went to the Maria Fareri Children's Hospital's emergency room. Moyer requested an on-call plastic surgeon, because someone had advised her to do so in a situation that called for stitches.

When the doctor, Anthony Alessi, DMD, MD, came in after a wait, the visit was quick: "He just stitched up her forehead, it took like, five minutes," Moyer said. "And then -- now I have this bill."

Moyer got Alessi's bill -- which listed a Los Angeles P.O. Box rather than a New York office -- a year and a half after the visit.

It totaled $21,500 -- $17,000 for the procedure, and $4,500 for the emergency department visit.

"THIS ACCOUNT IS SERIOUSLY PAST DUE, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE IMMEDIATELY," a note on the bill read.

Moyer was shocked: "I was not expecting that this morning."

After all, she thought, her insurance, UnitedHealthcare, covers ED visits, as they had in the past. When they left that day with 10 stitches in Jojo's forehead, "I didn't think about it at all. I assumed it was 100% covered."

But it wasn't that simple. Emergency physicians or doctors on call often aren't employed directly by the hospital. They can be contractors who are out-of-network for a patient's insurance, even if the hospital is in-network. The doctors or the staffing agencies that employ them negotiate with insurance companies for payment, while hospitals can send insurers separate bills for their part of the work.

In this case, Alessi had submitted a claim to UnitedHealthcare four times, according to Explanation of Benefits statements that Moyer shared with MedPage Today . Those claims were rejected by the insurance company all four times for what they said was "an incorrect or inappropriate primary diagnosis code."

Failing to get payment from the Moyers' insurance, Alessi's office passed the bill on to the Moyers themselves -- a practice known as "surprise billing."

Regulators have tried to address these bills, passing state and federal legislation that's supposed to protect patients from enormous charges for emergency services. The federal No Surprises Act gives patients a way out of the bills, while insurers and providers, if they cannot agree on payment, go through an independent resolution process.

New York State law also allows New Yorkers to be "protected from surprise bills when treated by a non-participating (out-of-network) doctor at a participating hospital or ambulatory surgical center in their health plan's network" using a similar process.

It's not clear if the New York state law applies to the Moyers' employer-issued insurance plan, and because federal laws haven't taken effect yet, the Moyers may still end up with a big bill.

On Wednesday, Moyer called UnitedHealthcare to ask whether she was indeed responsible for the sum. The claims representative explained that Alessi's office still needed to provide additional information, but that the insurer would continue to process the claim.

"This $21,500 is actually not your responsibility," a UnitedHealthcare representative told Moyer.

From the bill, however, it appeared that it was. Moyer herself is a science journalist, and even for someone who knows the healthcare field better than most, the charge was still mystifying.

"How do people who do not have any background in ... healthcare or health ... manage this and navigate this?" she said. "It's so hard."

The insurer said Alessi's office needed to re-submit the bill with different codes. As the codes stood, they would duplicate claims that were already paid out. The hospital had asked for $683 and UnitedHealthcare had paid $267.

UnitedHealthcare said they had communicated the problem to Alessi's office and they were still waiting to hear back.

A billing representative for Alessi's office said they had submitted a claim to UnitedHealthcare and hadn't heard that they needed to resubmit different information.

When asked why they sent the bill, Alessi's representative said the "purpose is to send her a statement so she can confirm she had received this service with this doctor, and she can call her insurance carrier, and then we can go from there."

The representative said she needed to leave a paper trail for the negotiation to move forward. It wouldn't have worked, she said, to explain this to Moyer.

"If I called her and said 'this is the balance in full,' she might think 'okay, this is a scam,'" the representative told MedPage Today.

Instead, the bill arrived with the overdue notice.

"Clearly that was a bill and they were hoping I would pay it," Moyer said.

The UnitedHealthcare claims representative acknowledged to Moyer that Alessi is indeed an out-of-network provider who would "have the right to pass the bill to you guys, since you are the patient, and they don't have a contract with United Healthcare."

UnitedHealthcare said it would wait for the claim to be re-submitted correctly, and then negotiate with the physician: "Whatever amount they agree upon, then that's the amount that we are going to cover," the UnitedHealthcare representative told Moyer.

But depending on what the negotiated amount is, the Moyers may find themselves once again hit with a huge bill.

Sophie Putka is an enterprise and investigative writer for MedPage Today. Her work has appeared in the Wall Street Journal, Discover, Business Insider, Inverse, Cannabis Wire, and more. She joined MedPage Today in August of 2021. Follow

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ER or Not: Stitches

You accidentally cut yourself. Do you need stitches or will a bandage work just fine? Emergency room physician Dr. Troy Madsen goes through some of the scenarios that would require you to visit the ER for stitches. He also talks about at-home alternatives for stitches when the cut isn’t severe enough for the emergency room.

Episode Transcript

Scot: Is it bad enough to go to the emergency room, or isn't it? Find out now. This is ER or Not on The Scope. Time for another addition of ER or Not with Dr. Troy Madsen, Emergency Medicine at University of Utah Health Care. Here's the scenario. Decide if you need to go and then we'll get the answer from Dr. Madsen. I cut myself, do I need stitches? ER or not?

Dr. Troy Madsen: So cuts are tough. It's one of those things that I always think to myself, "Man, if I were out traveling and I had to go to the ER for a cut for stitches..." You know, it's not a fun situation to be in because usually you're waiting for three or four hours to get in. You know it's really a great question, "Do I really need stitches on this?" If you look at the wound and you look at the cut and the edges are gaping, or they're not together, then that's a sign you need stitches. The big thing stitches do is they just pull the wound together. They hold it together to make sure that it heals up nicely. It becomes a much bigger concern if it involves the face. There we worry much more about cosmetic outcomes and making sure things look okay. If the wound is open, if you're seeing tissue coming out of it, maybe things you know that look a little bit deeper than the skin, those are all signs that you probably are going to need stitches. Otherwise, if that's not the case, you can try a bandage on it at home. There are some things I've seen at the store; actually, liquid bandages they call them. It's kind of similar to some stuff we use in the ER. It works pretty well for holding these lacerations and keeping dirt and things like that getting in there if it is something more minor that doesn't need stitches.

Scot: Is this an Instacare thing maybe?

Dr. Troy Madsen: Sure. Absolutely. Instacare is the perfect place for this kind of thing. A great place you can usually get in a little more quickly than the ER. Get that sewn up. If there are a lot of big concerns with bleeding, a lot of blood coming out of that or if you are having trouble feeling in your hand... Let's say you've got a cut down further on your wrist and you lost sensation. That's a reason to come to the ER because we might need to get a hand specialist to see you. Urgent Cares are a perfect place for these things otherwise.

Announcer: We're your daily dose of science. Conversation. Medicine. This is The Scope, University of Utah Health Sciences Radio.

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'Really astonishing': Average cost of hospital ER visit surges 176% in a decade, report says

Hospital emergency rooms are more likely to charge pricier levels of care than a decade ago, generating bigger bills that consumers increasingly must pay with their own money, according to a new report.

The nonprofit Health Care Cost Institute (HCCI) examined insurance claims for a decade’s worth of hospital emergency room bills , analyzing millions of insurance claims for people under the age of 65 who get health insurance through an employer.

HCCI found that hospital emergency rooms not only substantially increased prices for care from 2008 through 2017. The hospitals and doctors also billed for more complex care, which allows them to collect more lucrative fees from consumers, employers and private insurers.

The average emergency room visit cost $1,389 in 2017, up 176% over the decade. That is the cost of entry for emergency care; it does not include extra charges such as blood tests, IVs, drugs or other treatments.

“When you look at the last 10 years, it’s really astonishing how this average cost of admission to the ER has gone up,” says HCCI senior researcher John Hargraves, who presented his report this week at the AcademyHealth meeting in Washington, D.C.

Last month, President Trump called on Congress  to curb surprise medical billing , which describes when a consumer gets an often-expensive bill from a hospital or doctor that is not part of their insurance network. Many states already have passed legislation to address these unexpected bills .

More: Trump has the power to save seniors' lives and fix a surprise billing issue in Medicare

It comes down to the codes

But less attention has been paid on how ERs bill patients.

Every hospital emergency room visit is assessed on a scale of 1 to 5 – a figure intended to gauge medical complexity and the amount a consumer will be billed.

An insect bite might be assigned the lowest billing code, 99281. A heart attack, the highest code, 99285.

The difference in how an emergency room visit is coded might cost a consumer hundreds more for simply stepping in the building.

In 2008, 17% of hospital visits were charged the most expensive code. That surged to 27% of visits in 2017, the report said. The average price for the most expensive code more than doubled from $754 in 2008 to $1,895 in 2017.

Hospitals also increased billings for the second most expensive code, but they billed the three least expensive codes less often compared to a decade ago.

Are we sicker? Or just being billed like it?

Does that mean Americans became sicker over the past decade, requiring more intense and complex care at hospital emergency rooms? The report does not address that question.

Americans don't go to the hospital ER more often than they did a decade ago, the report said. However, those visits cost more and are more likely billed with more expensive codes. 

"We don't see a big rise in overall ER rates," Hargraves says. "Which is what you'd expect if there's a large increase of people having heart attacks or other (more severe) things. I think that's telling."

The report combines the amount charged by hospitals and doctors, who often bill patients separately.

Hospital industry officials point to their own studies to explain the increased use of more expensive codes at emergency rooms.

An American Hospital Association report found the average number of emergency room visits per 1,000 patients increased nearly 12% between 2006 and 2010. The report also found those adults had a rising level of illness. The report examined hospital use by older adults eligible for Medicare; HCCI reported on hospital claims of people under the age of 65.

“Hospital emergency departments treat many of our nation’s sickest and most complex patients,” says Ashley Thompson, senior vice president of policy at the American Hospital Association. “As hospitals serve as the front-door for dealing with issues ranging from violence, mental health conditions and the opioid epidemic , the number and complexity of ED visits overall continues to increase.”

The decade-long change in billing practices comes as hospitals have shifted to electronic health records systems. These computerized systems might prompt hospital staff to better document care, which might support the use of more expensive codes, Hargraves said. 

Others aren't so sure. 

Whistleblowers

Jeffrey Newman is a Boston attorney who has represented whistleblowers under the federal False Claims Act. The federal law allows individuals to bring lawsuits on behalf of the government and collect a portion of any settlement. The law is often used by ex-employees of hospitals, medical practices, drug companies or medical-device makers when they suspect a former employer is improperly billing federal health programs such as Medicare or Medicaid.

In March, a nurse practitioner represented by Newman settled a False Claims Act case for $2.1 million against CareWell Urgent Care Centers.

The settlement said that CareWell managers directed doctors and other medical providers ask patients about 13 body parts or systems and examine at least 9 areas, even if the patient's symptoms that did not require such extra attention. 

If the doctors did not ask the questions, the urgent care center's medical records system registered a "no" answer. The robust queries were meant to ensure the urgent care center could bill at a higher level reimbursement code, the settlement said.

Newman said he believes there are not enough checks and balances to guarantee medical services are properly coded.

"They can find reasons to say they were doing more complex things," Newman says. "They often see this as an easy mark to pump the services and say, 'We're being better doctors,' when it contravenes the rules."

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When Should You Go to the ER For Stitches

When should you go to the er for stitches.

Stitches are necessary for pulling the skin back together after a deep cut , laceration , or bite. A visit to the emergency room for stitches will stop the bleeding, repair any underlying tissue damage, reduce your risk of infection, and minimize scarring. Read on to find out if your cut requires a trip to the emergency room for immediate treatment.

ER of Texas has multiple emergency rooms throughout the Dallas, Fort Worth area. Our emergency rooms are open 24/7 and staffed with board-certified emergency room physicians who can address deep gashes, bites, or other injuries that require stitches.

Signs your cut requires stitches at an emergency room

While many cuts and scrapes can be handled at home or in an urgent care setting, some wounds do require a trip to the emergency room for stitches or other medical treatments.

• The cut is deeper than a quarter of an inch
• A dirty or rusty object caused the cut
• Fat, muscle, bone, or other interior body structures are visible
• The cut is over a joint, and the edges open when you move the joint
• You have cosmetic concerns about the wound, i.e., it’s on your face
• After 10 – 15 minutes of pressure, the cut is still bleeding
• There is severe bleeding, or blood is spurting out of the wound

If your wound exhibits any of the above signs, visit the nearest emergency room in the Dallas Fort Worth area, including in Highland Village , Little Elm , Frisco , Hurst , Colleyville , Mansfield , Hillcrest , Sherman , and Uptown .

Remember that you may not need stitches if the cut is a simple puncture wound or if it is very shallow and has smooth edges. If you are unsure if your injury requires stitches, it is best to seek out medical attention from an emergency room near you.

What kind of stitches do you need?

When patients visit an emergency room, like ER of Texas , for a cut or laceration, the attending physician will determine if stitches are needed to keep the wound closed and, if so, what kind of stitches will be the best fit. Depending on the extent of the wound and, in some cases, its location, stitches can be placed using materials that dissolve over time and do not need to be removed. Removable stitches may be required in other instances, which means a return trip to our ER location to have the stitches removed at the appropriate time in our emergency care center.

What to expect in the emergency room when receiving stitches

ER of Texas has a unique approach when it comes to treating patients in their an emergency room care setting. They are proficient at addressing “level 3” emergencies at our ER of Texas emergency rooms emergency centers in Dallas and Fort Worth, TX, including complex lacerations and stitches. In many hospital emergency rooms, the patients with Level 3 cases, like those with a wound requiring stitches, tend to wait for the longest for treatment behind more critical patients.

When patients arrive for stitches in the emergency room , they will be seen by a board-certified ER physician. Our staff will perform a thorough physical exam to assess the cause and seriousness of your wound and discuss your medical history. The wound will be cleaned and, if applicable, stitched back together. Next, your wound will be dressed or bandaged in order for it to heal properly and keep it free from infection. An optimal treatment plan will depend on how deep or large the wound is or if it has become infected. Antibiotics could be prescribed, or certain injections may be necessary depending on the type of wound and its origin.

How to care for your stitches at home

After a visit to an emergency room for stitches, it is very important to follow the directions from a board-certified ER physician, such as those at ER of Texas. Keeping your stitches clean and covered is necessary to prevent the onset of an infection. Gently wash your wound with clean water and mild soap. If you were prescribed an antibiotic cream, apply a thin layer before you re-dress it. Ensure that you dress or bandage your wound loosely so blood flow isn’t affected, and change your dressing daily.

If you see swelling or redness or your wound becomes tender, you may have developed an infection. It is important to seek immediate medical attention and return to the facility where you were treated. We are committed to keeping all of our patients safe both during and after their visit to our emergency room.

Our ER is open 24/7 to help treat and diagnose minor and major emergencies. Our board-certified physicians are available 24 hours.

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Emergency Room Visit: When to Go, What to Expect, Wait Times, and Cost

Knowing when and why to go for an emergency room visit can help you plan for care in the event of a medical emergency.

How much does it cost to go to an emergency room?

Emergency Room (ER) costs can vary greatly depending on what type of medical care you need. How much you pay for the visit depends on your health insurance plan. Most health plans may require you to pay something out-of-pocket for an emergency room visit. A visit to the ER may cost more if you have a High-Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) and you have not met your plan’s annual deductible. HDHP's typically offer lower monthly premiums and higher deductibles than traditional health plans. Your plan will start paying for eligible medical expenses once you’ve met the plan’s annual deductible. Here are some tips to pay less out of pocket .

When should I go to an emergency room?

Emergency rooms are often very busy because many people don’t know what type of care they need, so they immediately go to the ER when they are sick or hurt. You should make an emergency room visit for any condition that’s considered life-threatening.

Life-threatening conditions include, but are not limited to, things like a serious allergic reaction, trouble breathing or speaking, disorientation, a loss of consciousness, or any physical trauma.

If you need to be treated for problems that are considered non-life threatening, such as an earache, fever and flu symptoms, minor animal bites, mild asthma, or a mild urinary tract infection, consider seeing your doctor or visiting an urgent care center or convenience care clinic.

What is the cost of an emergency room visit without insurance?

Emergency room costs with or without health insurance can be very high. If you have health insurance, review your plan documents for details on the costs associated with your plan, including your plan deductible, coinsurance, and copay requirements.

If you don’t have insurance, you may be required to pay the full cost of your treatment, which can vary by facility and the type of treatment required. Always plan ahead for sudden sickness, injury, or other medical needs, so you know where to go and how much it could cost. If you need medical care, but it’s not life-threatening you may not have to go to the ER—there are other more affordable options:

• Urgent care center: Staffed by doctors, nurses, and other medical staff who can treat things like earaches, urinary tract infections, minor cuts, nausea, vomiting, etc. Wait times may be shorter and using an urgent care center could save you hundreds of dollars when compared to an ER.
• Convenience care clinic: Walk-in clinics are typically located in a pharmacy (CVS, Walgreens, etc.) or supermarket/retail store (Target, Walmart, etc.). These clinics are staffed with physician assistants and nurse practitioners who can provide care for minor cold, fever, flu, rashes and bruises, head lice, allergies, sinus/ear infections, urinary tract infections, even flu and shingles shots. No appointments are needed, wait times are usually minimal, and a convenience care clinic costs much less than an ER.

Plan ahead for when you need medical care. You may not need an emergency room visit and the bill that could come with it.

What are common emergency room wait times?

Emergency room wait times vary according to hospital and location. Patients in the ER are seen based on how serious their condition is. This means that the patients with life-threatening conditions are treated first, and those with non-life threatening conditions have to wait.

To help reduce ER wait times, health care facilities encourage you to plan ahead for care, so when you’re sick or hurt, you know if the ER is right for your medical condition.

An emergency room visit can take up time and money if your problem is not life-threatening. Consider other care options, such as an urgent care center, convenience care clinic, your doctor, or a virtual doctor visit (video chat/telehealth)—all of which could be faster and save you money out of your own pocket if the medical problem is non-life threatening.

If you have health insurance, be sure to check your plan documents to see what types of care options are eligible for coverage under your plan, including whether or not you need to stay in your plan’s network.

Is taking an ambulance to the emergency room free?

An ambulance ride is not free, but your insurance may cover some of the costs for the ride, as well as the emergency room visit. Check your plan benefits to see what out-of-pocket expenses you are responsible for when it comes to an ambulance ride and a visit to the ER.

Plan ahead for times you may need immediate medical care. Review the details of your health plan so you know the costs for an ER visit should you ever need it. Know when it’s best to go to the emergency room and when going somewhere else, like an urgent care center, convenience care clinic, your doctor, or even a virtual doctor visit (video chat/telehealth), is the right option that may save you time and money.

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• Does Urgent Care Do Stitches?

by admin | Mar 25, 2024 | Urgent Care

When it comes to injuries, timely and appropriate treatment is crucial. Among the many concerns patients face, one common question is: “Does urgent care do stitches?” The answer is yes. Urgent care centers, including Cedar Point Health Urgent Care, provide this essential service. Cedar Point Health is dedicated to offering quick, efficient, and comprehensive care for a variety of urgent medical needs, including stitches. 

This blog aims to shed light on the services regarding stitches provided at urgent care centers, particularly at Cedar Point Health, ensuring that readers are well-informed about their healthcare options.

Table of Contents:

What are stitches and when are they necessary.

• Should I Go To The Emergency Room Or Urgent Care For Switches?

Cedar Point Health Urgent Care’s Approach to Stitches

How much do stitches cost, what should i expect during my urgent care visit for stitches, how can i help the healing process of my stitches, are there any insurance and payment options at cedar point health, how can i get stitches today.

Stitches, medically known as sutures, are used to close wounds. They play a vital role in wound care by facilitating proper healing, minimizing scarring, and preventing infections. Typically, stitches are necessary for deeper cuts or lacerations, often those longer than half an inch, deep enough to expose the dermis or fatty layer, or wounds that won’t stop bleeding after 15 minutes of direct pressure.

Common injuries requiring stitches include deep cuts from knife accidents, falls that result in skin lacerations, or any injury where the edges of the wound do not fall together. The key signs indicating a need for stitches are profuse bleeding, the visibility of deeper layers of skin or bone, and wounds located at joints or areas prone to movement.

Should I Go To The Emergency Room Or Urgent Care For Stitches?

The choice between visiting an urgent care center or an emergency room (ER) for stitches depends on the severity and nature of the injury. Urgent care centers are well-equipped to handle minor lacerations that require stitching. The benefits of choosing urgent care for such injuries include shorter wait times, lower costs, and a more focused level of care for non-life-threatening conditions.

However, it’s crucial to recognize scenarios where an ER visit is more appropriate. These include situations involving major trauma, wounds with severe bleeding that doesn’t stop, deep wounds affecting muscles or tendons, and injuries accompanied by symptoms like fainting or severe pain. In such cases, the comprehensive resources available at an ER are essential for appropriate care.

At Cedar Point Health – Urgent Care, we pride ourselves on our comprehensive approach to treating wounds that require stitches. 

Our process begins with thoroughly assessing the injury to determine the best course of action. We employ a range of stitching techniques, from traditional sutures to advanced skin adhesives, tailored to the specific needs of each wound.

The expertise of our medical professionals is a cornerstone of our service. Our team comprises skilled practitioners who bring years of experience in emergency care and wound management. They are trained in the latest techniques of wound closure, ensuring not only the aesthetic outcome of the stitch but also promoting optimal healing.

Understanding the cost of medical procedures is important for our patients. Generally, the cost of receiving stitches at urgent care is significantly lower than what you would incur in an emergency room setting.

Prices for stitches at urgent care start from $200. Several factors influence the cost, including the severity and location of the wound, the type of sutures used, and any additional treatments required such as tetanus shots or antibiotics.

At Cedar Point Health, we are committed to transparent pricing policies. We provide our patients with a clear understanding of the costs involved before the procedure. This policy helps patients make informed decisions about their care without the stress of unexpected medical bills.

Your visit to Cedar Point Health for stitches will be handled with utmost care and professionalism. Here’s what you can expect:

Upon arrival, our medical staff will assess your wound and decide the best treatment plan.

2. Preparation

The area around the wound will be cleaned and, if necessary, numbed using local anesthesia to minimize discomfort.

3. Stitching

The practitioner will carefully stitch the wound, ensuring precise closure for optimal healing.

4. Pain Management

We prioritize your comfort. If you’re experiencing pain, we’ll address it promptly with appropriate pain management options.

5. Aftercare Instructions

After the procedure, you’ll receive detailed instructions on how to care for your stitches, signs of infection to watch for, and when to return for a follow-up or stitch removal.

6. Duration

The entire process, from assessment to completion of the stitching procedure, typically takes less than an hour.

We strive to make your experience as smooth and stress-free as possible, ensuring you receive the highest quality care.

Once you leave Cedar Point Health with your new stitches, proper aftercare is crucial for smooth healing. Here are some tips:

• Caring for Your Stitches at Home

Follow the bandaging instructions provided.

Avoid strenuous activities that might stress the stitched area.

Follow any specific instructions given by our medical team regarding dressing changes or wound care.

2. Watching for Signs of Infection or Complications

Be alert for increased redness, swelling, warmth, or discharge from the wound site.

Watch for fever or worsening pain, which could indicate an infection.

Contact Cedar Point Health immediately if you notice any of these signs.

3. Follow-Up and Stitch Removal

A follow-up appointment will be scheduled to assess the healing process.

Stitch removal is typically done 7-14 days post-procedure, depending on the wound location and healing progress.

At Cedar Point Health, we strive to make healthcare accessible and affordable.

Accepted Insurance Plans

• We accept a wide range of insurance plans. Please contact our office for a detailed list.

Options for Uninsured Patients

• For patients without insurance, we offer competitive self-pay rates. Don’t hesitate to discuss your situation with us.

Stitches are a common and necessary procedure for many types of wounds, and Cedar Point Health Urgent Care is here to provide this essential service. 

Our experienced medical team, straightforward costs, and comprehensive aftercare support ensure you receive the best possible care. We encourage you to choose Cedar Point Health for your urgent care needs.

Don’t wait when it comes to wound care. Visit Cedar Point Health for expert urgent care services, and rest assured you’re in capable hands. Remember, prompt attention to wounds not only aids in quicker healing but also reduces the risk of complications.

Get directions to Cedar Point Health Urgent Care in Montrose >

Get directions to Cedar Point Health Urgent Care in Clifton >

Get directions to Cedar Point Health Urgent Care in Grand Junction >

Learn more about our urgent care services >

Read related articles:

• When To Go To Urgent Care
• When to Choose Urgent Care Over ER
• What is Urgent Care?

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