For many Americans, the decision to get surgery is no longer just a medical one—it’s a financial gamble. With healthcare costs continuing to rise, the fear of an overwhelming bill is keeping thousands from getting the procedures they need. In fact, a study published in JAMA Network Open found that nearly half of adults over 50 who worry about the cost of surgery ultimately decide not to have it. And it’s not just about money—concerns about taking time off work are also forcing people to postpone necessary care.
At Smith Medical Direct Specialty Care, we believe there’s a better, more affordable way forward.
The Real Cost of Surgery in the U.S.
Healthcare costs in the U.S. are a growing concern—and the numbers paint a clear picture. A recent Gallup poll found that nearly 80% of Americans are unhappy with the cost of their healthcare. Satisfaction with quality is also declining, with fewer people rating their care as “good” or “excellent” than ever before.
Even with recent efforts to improve transparency—such as new regulations requiring hospitals to publish pricing for common procedures—most patients still find it difficult to get a clear answer on how much their surgery will cost. Prices vary widely based on location, insurance contracts, and facility fees. And even when patients do their homework, they often encounter hidden costs or unexpected out-of-network charges after the fact.
This uncertainty is one of the biggest reasons people are putting off procedures that could dramatically improve their quality of life.
A Simpler, More Affordable Approach: Smith Medical
At Smith Medical, we do things differently.
We specialize in cash-pay outpatient surgeries with clear, upfront pricing—often 40–60% less than traditional hospital costs. Patients know exactly what they’ll pay before their procedure, with no hidden fees, facility charges, or surprise bills later on. It’s a level of transparency that’s still rare in today’s healthcare landscape.
This model is ideal for:
- Uninsured patients looking for affordable options
- High-deductible insurance holders who would otherwise pay full price
- Health-sharing community members who prefer to manage their healthcare independently
- Employers seeking more cost-effective ways to support their employees’ health
By removing insurance bureaucracy and inflated hospital fees, we’re able to deliver high-quality surgical care at a fraction of the typical cost.
The Problem With “Transparent” Healthcare
You may have heard about recent rules aimed at improving healthcare price transparency. While these regulations are well-intentioned, in practice they often fall short. Many hospitals still don’t publish pricing in a user-friendly or consistent format. Patients trying to find out the cost of a simple procedure may face pages of unclear information—or be asked for billing codes and plan details they don’t have.
Even the No Surprises Act, which was designed to protect patients from unexpected bills for out-of-network care, has its limitations. Enforcement is challenging, and loopholes exist that still leave patients vulnerable to large and unpredictable costs.
In short, most Americans still can’t easily compare prices or understand what they’ll owe—until it’s too late.
Smith Medical: Predictable, Personalized, Patient-Centered
Our approach is built around clarity and care. With Smith Medical, patients receive:
- All-inclusive pricing before surgery
- Personalized care from a consistent team of providers
- Prompt scheduling with shorter wait times
- Follow-up care from the same surgical team
And unlike traditional facilities where patient satisfaction scores vary dramatically (ranging as low as 33% according to national data), we consistently hear from patients who feel cared for, respected, and relieved—not just because of our pricing, but because of our people.
Common Surgeries We Perform
We offer a wide range of outpatient procedures, including:
- Hernia repairs
- Gallbladder removal (cholecystectomy)
- Endoscopy and colonoscopy
- Orthopedic procedures (e.g., carpal tunnel release, joint scopes)
- ENT procedures (e.g., sinus surgery, tonsillectomy)
- Skin lesion excisions and biopsies
- Women’s health procedures (e.g., tubal ligation, hysteroscopy)
Please note: Smith Medical does not currently offer urology-based surgeries.
A Smarter Choice for Employers
Employers are also feeling the impact of healthcare costs. By partnering with Smith Medical, businesses can offer employees a surgical care option that is affordable, fast, and high-quality. Whether it’s for planned procedures or alternative options within their benefit plans, employers can reduce costs while improving outcomes.
Our facility is a valuable resource for:
- Self-funded employers looking to reduce claims
- Benefit advisors seeking innovative solutions
- HR professionals who want to support employees’ health without breaking the company budget
Take Control of Your Care
We believe healthcare shouldn’t be confusing—or unaffordable. Smith Medical offers an alternative that’s clear, compassionate, and cost-effective. Whether you’re uninsured, facing a high deductible, or simply tired of the unpredictability of traditional medical billing, we’re here to help.
- Visit us at www.smithdirectcare.com
- Call 720-740-6307
- Email info@smithdsc.com
