Biggest "the kids are fucked" moment I've had recently was at urgent care.
Walked in for a strep test, asked upfront what it would cost without insurance.
Receptionist said she couldn't tell me. "It depends on what the doctor finds."
Got the test, got a quick look at my throat, was out in 15 minutes.
The bill came three weeks later: $385. For a swab and a five-minute conversation.
Called to ask for an itemized breakdown. Turns out "facility fee" alone was $220, just for walking through the door, regardless of what they actually did inside.
I assumed a price was something you could ask for before you agreed to pay it.
Apparently in healthcare, you find out what something costs only after you've already agreed to it.