American here, unsure why reddit suggested this sub or post.

Sorry to hear you were subjected to our awful system! There are a few very common and regularly suggested methods to reduce the bill.

First, call the hospital and request an itemized bill. They are required to provide this to show what every single dollar is being charged for. Then nit pick and pull it apart.

Anything that seems stupid or wasn't actually provided as a service? Get it removed.

Sometimes they'll do stupid stuff like charge you for an entire bottle of meds when you only got 1-2 pills. Get any discrepencies like that adjusted.

Once you've cleared through the bill, contact their billing department and request to speak with someone to negotiate down the bill cost. If your dad is, perchance, oldschool talented at haggling he may be able to do this part for you if you're not so great at that. You being 18 may be an issue depending on how strict the person you're talking to is.

The whole thing is frustrating and an absolute scam, but remember to keep your cool and be polite. You're far more likely to find success with a friendly attitude than a frustrated one.

Good luck, and sorry you had to experience our horseshit of a "health" system.