"The Cost of Getting Sick…." (11/29/23)

Dakota Medical association Fee Bill — Cover: Fee Bill of the Dakota Medical association adopted at a regular meeting Milbank Dakota territory June 3, 1882.
Inside: Lists the prices for doctor visits and medical procedures in the Dakota territory, prices ranging from fifty cents for an ordinary prescription to thigh amputation for $100. Also states costs for out of town visits and the price charged per mile.

Pricing of the medical fee bill — Cover: Fee Bill of the Dakota Medical association adopted at a regular meeting Milbank Dakota territory June 3, 1882.
Inside: Lists the prices for doctor visits and medical procedures in the Dakota territory, prices ranging from fifty cents for an ordinary prescription to thigh amputation for $100. Also states costs for out of town visits and the price charged per mile.

“The Cost of Getting Sick….”

‘Tis cold and flu season, and time to see the doctor. In June of 1882, the Dakota Medical Association set a standardized fee bill for healthcare in Dakota Territory. The fee bill would be in place until the next regular meeting in May of 1883. It was adopted in Milbank, Dakota Territory under the direction of President Dr. S.B. McGlumphy (Yankton), and Secretary Dr. H.G.C. Rose (Milbank). In 1882, it cost $10 plus mileage ($2 first mileages, plus 50 cents for each additional mile) to have a baby, if it was under 6 hours and with no complications; additional hours cost an extra 50 cents. Translated to today’s money it would cost $301.75, plus mileage ($60.35 for the first mile, $15.09 for each additional mile). While not the expense we pay today, it is still a significant amount for those that may be only able to pay in goods or services. Regardless of cost, may all stay healthy this season.