Overview

• Kahn’s urgent rabies treatment last August resulted in initial medical bills of $20,749, of which she remains responsible for over $19,000 after insurer denials.
• Her insurer enforced a 30-day waiting period on a plan purchased one day before she began the life-saving protocol.
• Kahn forfeited COBRA when her employer coverage lapsed after a layoff, leaving her without effective protection during the emergency.
• She has negotiated down some charges and set up payment plans but continues to appeal for full reimbursement.
• The episode underscores how routine waiting-period rules in private insurance can leave patients bearing the costs of urgent care.