My question involves collection proceedings in the State of: AL
I had emergency surgery. I've arranged to make reasonable payments for all the doctors, labs, etc. When I tried to do the same with the hospital, they would not be reasonable. They either want half in cash, a lump sum payment of $16,000+, or payments of $1800 a month. Neither of which I can do. I don't have a job, and my husband is not getting to work that much. Bad economy, and work is slow right now. I talked to the patient advocate, the financial assistance office and the billing office of the hospital. They all say that is their best offer and there's nothing else they or I can do. It will be going to collections soon, then I suppose I'll get sued. What else can I do? I've exhausted all my options at this point. Btw, I talked to a bankruptcy lawyer, who advised me not to pay. How long will it take to go to court?

