this. the sticker shock for the initial bill is usually just a negotiation between the insurance and government and the hospital. the former two then get back with what they'll actually agree to pay. it's crazy to have these bidding wars when it comes to health, but it is what it is. if you're uninsured, it usually means you're poor, and if you're not a complete retard at that point you can still negotiate or just declare bankruptcy
United States