Brigland Pfeffer, a 2-year-old, was bitten by a rattlesnake in his San Diego backyard. Emergency room staff struggled to administer antivenom, resulting in a high bill of $297,461, with antivenom alone costing over $200,000. The high cost of antivenom is due to hospital markups, lack of competition, and legal costs. Brigland’s insurance negotiated down the charges, and the family ended up paying $7,200 out of pocket. Brigland’s hand healed with some nerve damage, and the family has since installed snake fencing. It is important to seek medical care promptly for snakebites and be prepared to negotiate medical bills.
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