Illness and pain come at a physical and financial cost. Without adequate health insurance, the pain and suffering intensify. I know I’ve been stuck with a number of unexpected bills when I’ve been hospitalised, and recuperating seems so much harder with the added burden of medical expenses.

But, insurance isn’t everything. You do have financial options when your medical bills pile up.

Become your own advocate

You should not ignore your bills, but you don’t have to pay as billed. Medical billers do make mistakes.

Even with insurance, you have deductibles, copays, and network issues, so you must have a grasp of your insurance policy. You should keep receipts of service, payments, and communication with the medical practice and insurance company.

The BBC reports, “More than 80% of medical bills in the US contain errors, according to the Medical Billing Advocates of America.” So, if the billing is not in error, you can call the medical provider to discuss and negotiate your options. The practitioner really doesn’t want to take you into collections or see you walk away from the bill.

Don’t pay the bill

Large providers like hospital chains take a little time in their back and forth with insurance companies. But, having said that, the situation does not get better if you ignore or walk away from the bill.

But, you do so at serious risk to your credit record. Once things are put in the hands of a third-party collection agency, they can become uncivil and aggressive. And, that may be a precursor to litigation.

Declare bankruptcy

Bankruptcy is not an option. Little good comes from declaring bankruptcy. But, some people are hit with huge bills from long hospital stays and surgery.

Bankruptcy may reduce your obligation to the medical providers, but it won’t make it disappear. So, only if your bill is so large it turns your finances upside down, you should seek protection under bankruptcy laws.

Borrow from family and friends

Making personal loans can work if the amount is reasonable.

Consumer Reports points out, “a family loan can incite a family feud if expectations aren’t set out clearly—and subsequently met.” If the problem is under $100, you can usually pull that together. But, experience will tell you that owing family and friends is uncomfortable and puts your relationships at risk.

Take out a short-term loan

At an authorised FCA direct lender like MoneyBoat UK at this link. you can borrow money to get you through your medical bill crisis.

If you’re a returning customer, you can borrow up to £1800 or £800 if you are a first-time borrower. You might secure a repayment schedule of ten days to six months.

Your application is subject to a credit and affordability check. They consider your current financial situation as well as your repayment history.

The terms of the payday loan are clarified, fees described, and payment schedule laid out. But, you can even pay it off early with no charges or fees.

Insurance isn’t everything

Things are not desperate. You do have financial options when medical bills pile up, but the simplest and most prudent move may be making a short-term loan you can afford to repay.