The system works (for me)

“I’m not from here,” I say.

“How much will this cost me?” I ask.

Growing up American trains you to expect four and five and six figures when asking that question of a medical professional.

Hushed tales of families plunged into poverty by a single bill and inflammatory news reports of people dying waiting for funds.

My own brother, not yet graduated from college, already struggling to pay for care received when his heart threatened to burst.

“It’s free. All covered,” he says.

“But you might pay for...