Dealing with an overwhelming medical bill can be stressful, but there are strategies to help alleviate the burden. Follow these expert-approved guidelines to navigate the payment process: Understand denials - If your insurance denies coverage, determine the reason and file an appeal, backed by medical documentation. Negotiate costs - Challenge the initial bill by requesting an itemized breakdown and checking for errors or unnecessary charges. Negotiate a lower rate with medical providers and inquire about lump sum settlement options. Consistent payments - Hospitals often accept affordable monthly payments to prevent the bill from being sent to collections. Avoid credit cards - Unless you can pay off the balance monthly, using credit cards for medical debt is not advisable due to high interest rates. Seek financial assistance - Inquire about financial aid programs offered by nonprofit hospitals to potentially reduce the bill.