Arizona Resident Pays Big for Scorpion Sting

Scorpions have deadly potential when it comes to their ability to inject serious nerve poisoning into its victims’ bodies. According to KPHO-TV, upwards of 8,000 scorpions stings occur each and every year. While these predators are small in size, they pack a heavy punch with venom capable of killing or paralyzing stung victims.

After 52 year old Marcie Edmonds rushed to the emergency room in June following a scorpion sting, she had no idea that the cost associated with her anti-venom medicine would be astronomical. After she was cured, Edmonds received a medical bill for the treatment that was more than $83,000.

A resident of Phoenix, Edmonds needed two doses of anti-venom in order to relieve her symptoms from the scorpion sting. Each dose cost nearly $40,000 apiece, driving Edmonds’ medical bill from Chandler Regional Medical Center. According to the hospital, Edmonds had to pay out-of-network rates for her treatment. The insurer covered $57,000, leaving the remaining $25,000 to be paid by the accident victim.

Scorpions present serious danger, especially to young children. If you have been stung by a scorpion, seek medical attention immediately. Hospitalization is usually required to get rid of the venom and the associated symptoms.