A craniotomy for Mehul: covering what insurance won't

In June I was diagnosed with osteoarthritis in the right knee. My surgeon at Mumbai Orthopedic Institute recommended a craniotomy, and I have been placed on the schedule for September. The hospital's financial office gave me a written estimate of $1,650, and after what the government subsidy will pay, I'm still $1,000 short. Doctors at Mumbai Orthopedic Institute told me osteoarthritis in the right knee will get worse without a craniotomy. I work as a farm laborer, and I have saved what I can, but the estimate of $1,650 is far beyond what I've. Until the surgery I can't work full days, and my hours as a farm laborer have already been cut. Every week of waiting means more pain and a bigger risk. Rehabilitation is expected to take about 8 weeks. I'll not be able to look after the children alone during that time, so this has become a financial emergency as well as a medical one. I'll pay the hospital and pharmacy directly and post every receipt in the updates section. Where the $1,000 goes: • Post-operative medication: $60 • Hospital stay (3 nights): $460 • Physiotherapy sessions: $75 • Pre-operative tests and imaging: $90 • Surgeon and anesthesia fees: $315 Please ask me anything in the questions section. I'll answer honestly and quickly.