In Memory of Marshall Allen (1966-2024)
This conversation, recorded before Marshall's passing in May 2024, demonstrates exactly why his work matters. While most healthcare journalists chase headlines, Marshall did something different: he gave patients the actual tools to fight back against billing fraud.
In this discussion with CrowdHealth's Andy Schoonover, Marshall breaks down how hospitals systematically exploit patients - and more importantly, how to stop it.
What You'll Learn:
- The mechanics of hospital overcharging
- Why medical bills are negotiable (and how to do it)
- When to use small claims court (it works better than you think)
The Playbook:
- Never pay the first bill - it's almost always wrong
- How to negotiate from a position of strength
- When and how to use legal action effectively
- The power of cash pay in breaking the insurance game
In This Episode:
00:00 Welcome to the Healthcare Liberty Lab
01:35 Introducing Marshall Allen
05:07 The Power of Negotiation
10:01 Real Stories of Healthcare Savings
20:14 Legal Precedents and Patient Rights
25:25 Insurance and Payment Challenges
26:18 Medicare Myths and Hospital Finances
27:01 Healthcare Cost Inefficiencies
28:27 Fighting Unfair Medical Bills
31:13 Navigating Small Claims Court
39:27 Financial Assistance and Resources
44:07 Empowering Change in Healthcare
Marshall's Legacy Lives On Through:
"Never Pay the First Bill"
Marshall showed us that healthcare reform isn't just about policy - it's about patients knowing how to defend themselves right now.
This episode gives you the tools to do exactly that.
Check out @joincrowdhealth across platforms.
