Last year I developed a mild case (they call it “working”) of pneumonia. I went to a clinic run by a major provider here in the Houston area (Memorial Hermann). I was asked questions, x-rayed, diagnosed, given some kind of fluid to inhale for thirty minutes and a steroid shot in the rear end, was prescribed antibiotics and sent home. The entire experience took an hour-and-a-half. The bill? $3,600. $3,600!!!!! I have insurance that took care of a nice chunk, leaving me owing just over a grand. They let me out for about $600. Why, I have no idea. That $3,600 is a lot of freaking money, and many people just don’t have it. And if they don’t have it or don’t pay, they are screwed. Bye bye credit…