There's a lot of debate about how much a swine flu epidemic might cost. The UK is estimating anything from two to seven million quid if there's a serious breakout this winter across the pond (that's $3.3-11.5 million).

Its becoming increasingly clear here in the US that swine flu is already biting deep into hospital's bottom lines.

Marketplace's Joel Rose reported today that a severe flu pandemic could cost hospitals as much as $3.9 billion.

That's in part because hospitals would see more uninsured patients. And there are only so many hospital beds. If lots of swine flu patients need those beds ... hospitals would be forced to delay other procedures that aren't as critical -- but much more lucrative.