A patient goes to the hospital in need of services. The patient claims to have no insurance and is penniless. The hospital rolls out a gurney and it's off to the operating room. What does the hospital's billing department do? They write the insurance companies or governments snibbering they have an oath to take care of those in need.

The last time I looked, those of us outside the medical world didn't make a similar pledge. If hospital staff feels compelled to care for sick patients, I get it. Just don't bill me for services rendered.

Editor’s Note:   Brian Thomas is the host of Brian’s Beat on 1420 WBSM New Bedford.  He can be heard weekdays from 10am-Noon and Saturdays from 6am-9am.  The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of the author.

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