Even if it goes to collections you can make payments...setup a payment plan as soon as possible with the hospital so it won't go there if you can.
Don't let the collections people strong arm you into things. See if you can consult with a lawyer about wage garnishments and the like if you need to go that route. Hospitals aren't playing nice any more and dumping things on collection pretty quick in some cases.
Hang in there and do the therapy to help the arm heal and regain all the movement and strength you can get from it.
