Cesarean section hospital stay, no complications in San Francisco, CA: hospital prices

MS-DRG 788 is the hospital stay for an uncomplicated cesarean birth: operating room, nursing, the mother's room for two to four nights, supplies and medications. About a third of US births are cesarean, and this DRG covers the uncomplicated ones.

What the price covers, and what it does not

The mother's stay only. Not included: the obstetrician (global package 59510), the anesthesiologist, the assistant surgeon, the newborn's own stay and pediatric care (billed to the baby), and laboratory tests. Plan for several separate bills if paying cash, and ask for each in advance.

Why prices vary

Cesarean stays vary two to four times between hospitals in the same area, and the gap between a cesarean and a vaginal delivery at the same hospital is usually 50 to 100 percent. Many hospitals offer a fixed self-pay maternity package that includes a cesarean if needed; it is often the best protection against surprise costs.

Questions to ask

• What is the self-pay price for DRG 788, and what is the newborn's stay?
• Is there a self-pay package that covers both vaginal and cesarean birth?
• What do anesthesia and the assistant surgeon cost?