A bit OT: how much does initial clinic visit usually cost?

[Nuieve]

I went to the local community health clinic for immunizations last October as a new patient. Today I received the bill. They charge me 137$ for the visit alone (my insurance doesn't cover preventive care).

I think it's a bit steep for community clinic, especially since other than giving me shots, all they did was a MA took my (very brief, like 5 minutes tops) history, checked my vitals, and the doctor jumped in for 2-3 minutes, asked if I was ok, palpated my stomach, listened to my heart and then left. I did spend more than an hour in the clinic though, but simply waiting in a room for somebody to check on me.

I'm not really aware of local charges, so I have a fear I'm being ripped off (I'm an international student here).

I failed to google any information on this matter, so I'm asking it here. Maybe some of you can give me at least some thoughts on this.

Thanks!

[SillyStudent, ASN, RN]

That's not especially expensive. My immunizations alone were about 160 dollars when I needed some to start nursing school a few years ago. That does not include the office visit, and all I got were the first in a series of hep A and B vaccines.

[Nuieve]

Oh, ok, that sounds nice (for me that is). :) They charge me 51$ for Hep B... 25$ for combo (Td probably)... I guess HepA will be cost to 80$...

Anyway, thanks for easing my worries, now that I know everyone pays that much it will be less painr to swallow the bill. :)

[Jolie, BSN]

Next time, you might want to inquire in advance about the expected cost of the visit. Many clinics will negotiate charges for self-pay patients, especially if arrengements are made in advance.

[RN1989]

Did they ask you about income? Many community clinics are based on a sliding scale fee based on income. Most people who go to community clinics do not have jobs and/or insurance. If they knew you had insurance, they likely had a fee that was higher than someone who does not have insurance. Perhaps you need to look at different insurance. If that isn't possible, there is always pre-tax health spending accounts and the good old standby of saving all your receipts for anything and itemizing on your income tax to get some money back.