Quick answer
Check billing accuracy and available financial assistance while evaluating the broader debt picture.
Do now
Request itemized bills, insurance explanations, assistance policies, and collection details. Dispute errors through the appropriate process. If sued, respond separately in court. Discuss bankruptcy only after reviewing all debts and assets.
Watch for
A hospital’s payment plan or assistance request may not stop an already-filed lawsuit. Do not assume every collection demand matches the original bill or that a debt is legally owed simply because it appears on a statement.
Official sources
CFPB — Required Debt-Collection Information, FTC — Debt Collection FAQs, US Courts — Bankruptcy Basics.