Huh. My wife is actually having the same procedure done for the second time after Christmas. Naturally the doctor is in-network, but his surgical facility (on the same floor, immediately adjacent to the doctor's offices) isn't. So it's fork out $1500 and fight insurance to reimburse us after the fact.
In her case, the epidural really does give her life back by completely killing the pressure and migraines that otherwise plague her daily. Insurance can kiss my butt. Single payer would be fabulous in this case.
Does the NHS not cover treatment for documented, debilitating migraines? I would be shocked to hear that it doesn't. In fact I think I would be surprised to hear if the NHS doesn't cover anything as long as it isn't something like cosmetic surgery.
There is no reason single payer shouldn't or couldn't cover 99% of most medical needs.
In her case, the epidural really does give her life back by completely killing the pressure and migraines that otherwise plague her daily. Insurance can kiss my butt. Single payer would be fabulous in this case.