I've been to the emergency room twice in the last few months. The first time they got my co-pay ($50) while I was filling out the forms. The 2nd time they at least got me to a room before immediately sending in their billing person to ask me if I would prefer to pay by cash, check or charge. I told her I would prefer to be an illegal alien and get my treatment for free
My brother was with me the 2nd time and he flat out told her "Shouldn't a doctor be here before the bill collector in an emergency?". She was not amused.