PHOENIX -- In tough economic times, some Valley hospitals are offering huge discounts for people who are underinsured or have no coverage at all.

Gilbert mother Jaime Butler said she saved thousands of dollars when she gave birth to her son Crew.

She was expecting to pay around $12,000 because her health insurance doesn't include labor and delivery costs; however, she learned Banner Healthcare offers discount packages for those who can't afford to pay.

She ended up paying $4,000 -- an $8,000 savings.

"I didn't know that there was any kind of discount or deal out there that a hospital or doctor would offer," she said.

Banner Healthcare isn't the only hospital group offering huge discounts.

John C. Lincoln Health Network offers a program called Prompt Pay, which gives patients discounts depending on how quickly they pay the bill.

"We'll offer you 75 percent to pay us in two weeks, 50 percent in 60 days," said spokesman Fred Pigeon. "If you can pay in a year, we'll offer 40 percent off those charges."

Prompt Pay targets patients having procedures not covered by their health insurance policies; however, it also helps uninsured patients who don't qualify for financial aid.

Hospitals also have access to hundreds of millions of dollars in financial assistance -- patients just have to know to ask.

"No matter what hospital you're going to, inquire (if there are) specific pay plans," said Banner Health spokesman Bill Byron. "In a difficult economy, if you're able to find ways to make it easier to pay, it benefits both them and the organization."

Most Valley hospitals provide information about financial aid and discount programs when patients check in.

Hospital officials recommend people ask questions; in some cases, financial aid can be available for families that make up to $125,000 a year.