A partial thyroidectomy for Carter: covering what insurance won't

In August I was diagnosed with a hip fracture that never healed properly. My surgeon at Bakersfield Regional Medical Center recommended a partial thyroidectomy, and I have been placed on the schedule for November. The hospital's financial office gave me a written estimate of $11,000, and after what my insurance will pay, I'm still $5,450 short. Doctors at Bakersfield Regional Medical Center told me a hip fracture that never healed properly will get worse without a partial thyroidectomy. I work as a taxi driver, and I have saved what I can, but the estimate of $11,000 is far beyond what I've. Until the surgery I can't work full days, and my hours as a taxi driver have already been cut. Every week of waiting means more pain and a bigger risk. Rehabilitation is expected to take about 7 weeks. I'll not be able to lift anything heavy 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 $5,450 goes: • Physiotherapy sessions: $760 • Travel and lodging for the family: $430 • Pre-operative tests and imaging: $500 • Hospital stay (3 nights): $3,760 You're what makes this possible, and I'll never forget it.