Five-Mile Ambulance Ride Costs Man Nearly $1,000
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By Amelia Harper | MILFORD – 2025/06/06 10:09:37
A local man is speaking out about the exorbitant cost of ambulance services after receiving a bill for nearly $1,000 for a five-mile ride to the hospital.
earlier this year, on March 13, resident william Thigpen found himself in need of medical assistance after passing out at a fast-food restaurant in Milford. According to Thigpen, he was having breakfast when he fell out of his chair, causing a commotion. “There were several people standing around me telling me just to ‘stay down, help is on the way!'” he recounted.
Thigpen, 71, said he felt no pain and was more embarrassed than anything. He wanted to go home,but the manager insisted he wait for the ambulance. Eventually, an ambulance arrived from Houston, and the crew transported him five miles to the hospital.
After spending six hours in the emergency room, Thigpen was told to rest and go home. However, the relief was short-lived. Two months later, he received a bill for $5,500 from the hospital and a separate bill for $941.60 from ambulance accountants in New Castle.
High Costs, Little Comfort
Thigpen was shocked by the cost of the ambulance ride. “That is about the same price I would be charged for a first-class airline ticket to Los Angeles!” he exclaimed. “At least there I would have been served drinks, dinner, seen a movie and been given some slippers and a pillow from a flight attendant! For the five-mile ambulance ride through Milford … nothing! No emergency bandages, no oxygen, no meds, no ice!”
“For the five-mile ambulance ride through Milford … nothing! No emergency bandages, no oxygen, no meds, no ice!”
Thigpen is not alone in his frustration. Many Americans are struggling with the rising costs of medical care. “I know I am not the only person who is shocked and flabbergasted by the medical prices in America today, but like many seniors on a fixed income, I don’t want to used up my life savings on medical expenses either,” he said.
Seeking Solutions
Thigpen has taken action, writing to his federal representatives to voice his concerns. “I have written all three of my federal representatives and now it looks like millions of people will lose their health insurance with a big,stunning bill,but until we all raise our objections to the cost of medical care,this will just continue,” he stated.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why are ambulance rides so expensive?
- Ambulance costs include base rates, mileage fees, and charges for medical services.These costs can vary widely and are often not transparent.
- What can I do if I receive a high ambulance bill?
- You can try negotiating with the ambulance company, checking for errors on the bill, and appealing to your insurance company.
- Does insurance cover ambulance rides?
- Most health insurance plans cover ambulance rides, but the extent of coverage can vary. It’s vital to check your policy details.
