It would seem that all the consumer could do would be to just endure the cost. There are, however, some strategies to make the cost of a hospital stay as expensive as possible. If the care needed is the non-emergency type, compare prices at various hospitals. Hospital room rates can vary significantly. Also inquire about the availability of a non-private room, which would cost considerably less daily.
Some physicians routinely add charges for admission and release.
Major medical procedures will probably not be performed until the next business day but you will still be charged for a room for the days that could have been spent at home. If there are no diet restrictions, consider bringing food from home and bypass the charge for hospital meals. Some hospitals release mothers after as little as 24 hours. Avoid Caesarian-Sections, if possible. They are risky, expensive and not always necessary.