Negotiating self-pay rate for diagnostic mammogram/ultrasound?

I was laid off and lost our family coverage August 1st. We have the option to extend COBRA, but frankly, I don’t know how I am going to even make rent on unemployment payments. Unfortunately, my partner received the results from her mammogram screening and there were abnormalities. Because of her risk factors, her doctor has urged her to undergo a further diagnostic mammogram/ultrasound as soon as possible.

Under our insurance plan, the cost is almost $600. That was their quote to us of what we would owe at time of service. My employer offered only a high-deductible plan and that was the stated bill, contributing to the remaining deductible. The radiology clinic has refused to perform the testing without full upfront payment. Because of three prior major surgeries last year, we do not qualify for care credit and I do not have credit card space to take on any more medical debt. Is there a way to negotiate down the cash pay rate for the diagnostic imaging? I’m not even certain we can make the COBRA payment to maintain coverage, but at least I know that I have time to retroactively activate insurance later. I am concerned that we do not have time, however, to wait to have further diagnostic images done.

Does anyone know of a radiology department on the East Coast that will negotiate cash pay, or accept some sort of installment plan, rather than refusing imaging without complete up-front payment? Is there a best way to handle those negotiations or someone to contact? $600 feels so out of reach right now.

submitted by /u/EbolaSuitLookinCute
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