High charge at urgent care

[u/PromotionAgile]

I was charged $900 for a 15 minute visit to urgent care. Insurance doesn't cover any of it because I have a high deductible plan. I called the medical practice saying the charge was ridiculous. They checked the billing codes and found no error.

They said the insurance company sets the price and I can file a grievance with insurance. That seems like a wild goose chase.

Why is it so expensive? Is there anything I can do to reduce the cost?

[u/Alaskadan1a]

Urgent cares are set up to provide convenience, but at an extra cost. As noted by others, they charge more but see walk-in appointments. ERs are worse, and you could think of it as saving $2000 bucks by not going to the ER.

Most issues UC deal with can also be dealt with at your primary care office. If you can get a same-day appointment, you might say 500 bucks.