Originally Posted by madwi

Preface: I generally hate giving advice about finances but these have saved me money and headaches in the past when I didn't have medical insurance.

Next time call the hospital when you receive your first bill. Be sure to let them know you will never be able to pay the amount they are asking. Tears work at this point in the conversation.
Once you settle on a final amount ask to setup a monthly payment plan. Even a small monthly dollar amount and the willingness to want to settle the bill will go a long way with the billing staff and it wont be turned over to debt collectors.
I have had them drop 80% of the initial bill and accept $5 month because I was willing to pay but didn't have the money.