Hospital collection

My girlfriend has had some debt problems. The major problem is a debt of about 20,000.00 for a stay in the hospital that she thought was covered by insurance. The hospital has turned this over to a collection agency that hounds her day and night. She has offered debt consolidation and/or setting up a payment plan. They said, NO , they want it all in a lump sum payment. She also has incured about 4,000.00 in credit card debt, that she is paying off. Recently she has gone to an attorny that has recommened, bankruptcy. This all has taken place in the state of Missouri. I think this is not a great idea but hate to advise her. Could someone please give some advice, help, tips, anything. Thanks, George

[bigun]

I'm curious about this 20k misunderstanding. All insurance companies I know of must preapprove hospital admissions. Didn't they say anything then? Has she tried arbitration with the insurance company?
That being said, what alternative do you see? If she can't pay, she has an eventual judgement and wage garnishment to look forward too. Bankruptcy ain't great but sometimes it is unavoidable .

try offering a settlement offer or a certain amount per week.