The answer; usually, whatever it takes! Especially when your health insurer is likely to pay the bill. So, we hardly ever ask about cost. Probably a waste of time, anyway.

Then, consider this story from a friend.

“Millie had a nasty looking lump protruding from her . . . . .”  (Actually, telling you where would be TMI.)

“We rushed her to her doctor who took one look and said, this needs to be surgically removed. I can do it right now but you’ll need to pay cash and it’ll cost $285 plus sedation at $132. We’ll need to biopsy the mass, too. That’ll be $187. Total cost with incidentals; $844.00

“The doc asked for permission to proceed.

“The encapsulated mass was totally removed and Millie was home later that day.

“Unfortunately, the biopsy revealed cancer. So as a precaution, Millie subsequently had five chemo treatments at $716.85 each. Cash at each visit. She’s recovered and cancer free.”

Just where does one get such fabulous care at these prices?

A local veterinary clinic. (Alas, no waterfall in the lobby.)

BTW, like Peyton Manning, my friend regularly hums “Nationwide is on my side.” Yup. He has pet insurance!

Purchased here.